Urban design as a field of activity is concerned with the four-dimensional form and functioning of the public realm. It is both a process and a product and is often regarded as the integrative force that straddles and connects the more traditional built environment disciplines: urban design aims to reunite the partnership between planning and design to help improve the quality and sustainability of the built environment. This course provides an introduction to urban design theory and practice. It is designed to equip students with the skills they need to appreciate and critique urban design, and to engage in the design process. Particular skills to be developed include site context analysis, computer-based design and presentation, and the formulation of robust planning and urban design controls.