This is a seminar-based module, which aims at promoting an understanding of the forces that shape the built environment and the role played by design professionals. It will help you as future designers to understand that the city is a complex and dynamic system. It will also stimulate your active thinking and positive responses to various phenomena. The module will be delivered through illustrated lectures, debates, site visits, tutorials and a design day (design charrette). Topics are based around current challenges for urbanism such as building tall, developing appropriate and effective design guidance, and designing for communities in the light of financial viability and climate change. You will be introduced to key theories and design skills and have the opportunity to engage first hand with professionals from the field of planning and urban design. Assessment for this module is comprised of an essay, a case study presentation and the design day output.