Understanding the Street Layout of Melbourne’s Chinatown as an Urban Heritage Precinct in a Grid System Using Space Syntax Methods and Field Observation

Abstract

Melbourne’s Chinatown is the oldest in Australia. A large amount of research on this unique ethnic enclave has been conducted to elucidate its formation history, heritage significance, cultural influence and architectural features. However, the discussion of the precinct’s spatial characteristics remains mostly marginalised. As a heritage precinct in the centre of an urban grid form, the precinct offers a unique spatial experience to its visitors. To better fathom the street layout of the area, three objectives are addressed in this study, including understanding: (1) the precinct’s street network in the grid system, (2) the visibility relationship within the precinct and (3) the relationship between buildings and streets. A joint methodology framework is established to fulfil the research objectives by incorporating space syntax methods and field observation. The findings facilitate policymakers and planners in understanding the precinct’s unique street layout and making relevant preservation decisions. Further studies are encouraged to scrutinise other spatial and urban characteristics of the precinct and test the proposed methodology.

Unpacking Shifts of Spatial Attributes and Typologies of Urban Identity in Heritage Assessment Post COVID-19 Using Chinatown, Melbourne, as a Case Study

“…Spatially, the adaptability of spaces in the precinct is low [73]. As observed in the maps, the precinct layout has mostly stayed the same due to the Hoddle Grid layout of Melbourne City.…”

“…The field observation and archival review show these destinations are popular among local Chinese people. It is interesting to see the different types and intensities of attachment co-existing in the precinct [73]. On one hand, non-cultural-related functions, such as restaurants, aim to attract customers from all backgrounds inclusively; on the other hand, cultural-related functions possess attachment with local Chinese people.…”

Accessibility of Urban Tourism in Historical Areas: Analysis of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Safranbolu

“…Places with high integration values in the system indicate that they are well connected and easily accessible, and the integration value calculation is as follows [59]: 2 /TDx (Ix: integration value of space x, NC: node counts, (TDx): total depth Intelligibility is the correlation between integration and connectivity. It measures whether the local spatial structure can help interpret the entire spatial system [60]. The space syntax literature defines the concept of intelligibility as the ability of a space to provide clues for the objective perception of the urban spatial configuration [61].…”

Urban Characteristics, Identities, and Conservation of Chinatown Melbourne

“…They not only act as decorations but also resonate with the precinct's spatial layout and cultural background. Geng et al (2022) argue that the gateways stand at key intersections of the precinct to enhance a sense of continuity along the main street. For instance, at the intersection of Russell Street and Little Bourke Street, the two gateways mark the extension of the precinct beyond Russell Street with four lanes, which sections the precinct in half (Geng et al, 2022).…”

“…Geng et al (2022) argue that the gateways stand at key intersections of the precinct to enhance a sense of continuity along the main street. For instance, at the intersection of Russell Street and Little Bourke Street, the two gateways mark the extension of the precinct beyond Russell Street with four lanes, which sections the precinct in half (Geng et al, 2022). These gateways serve as spatial signages for pedestrians to identify the boundary of the precinct.…”