Jargon

Independent Cartographic Study

(Index)

This glossary exists to fill a void in language, both verbal and visual. Reconciling our relationship with the urban condition begins with the way we understand it, and jargon is often a barrier in understanding. The goal of this investigation is to provide an introductory outlet for linguistic and visual representation in architecture and urban design, especially in relation to the injustices the field tends to perpetuate. As spatial injustices compound, the way we represent them becomes critical. This is an exploration and an invitation, to myself and other participants in space, to critically reflect on the things we are taught to take for granted. Nothing in this glossary is to be considered complete or conceptually definitive, but rather should be viewed as a tool.

The glossary is composed of 14 terms under 4 categories, derived from Kevin Lynch’s Image of the City. Each term and category is given a definition and context within the greater piece. The prose used references historical social injustices and situates these scenarios in relation to the term. There are 10 accompanying maps, each associated to a term. The maps draw data from geographical and spatial sources and blend modes of representation, as well as drawing from the author’s experience and perception of space.

The transparent nature of the booklet allows the user to explore the themes on a tactile and personalied level. Maps may be viewed with their linguistic definitions, on their own, or stacked together to incite exploration and tension.

Spring 2023
Honors in the Discipline
Northeastern University School of Architecture

cat brownell

Research

Urbanism

Architecture

Info