The unit explores the complexity and evolution of city form and the influences of planning and design processes and practice. Using Australian and international case studies, the unit will investigate how urban functions, cultural values; technological, socio-economic and political circumstances; and design theory and practice shape the form of specific cities over time. The morphological elements of the city including: ecological systems; settlement and landownership patterns; transport, open space and street networks; urban infrastucture; open space, street and building typologies - are investigated to reveal often distinct local characteristics and the forces that shaped them. The ability to recognize, investigate and respond to the forces that shape the city lies at the heart of good urban design. On completion, a student will be better able to: recognize structures and patterns, and key building and spatial typologies that contribute to overall city morphology; record and describe these, investigate and explain their origins, and discuss informatively their place in the evolving city and contemporary design. It complements the History and Theory Planning and Design (PLAN9068) which emphasises the theories and models underpinning the forms that are covered in this unit. It is a core unit that supports the Urban Design Studios in the Urban Design program and the Integrated Urbanism Studio in the Urbanism program and an informative elective for students enrolled in or intending to enrol in the Urban Architecture Research Studio.