Space syntax is an objective method for evaluating spatial configurations, which was developed by architect Michael Vasku. Its suitable contribution to any design process is dependent on the designer’s discretion. Vasku’s dissertation describes a generative approach to finding particularly good interventions based on space syntax analyses of axial maps.

The affiliated case study examined the segregated street network of a colony through the application of the space syntax strategy and evaluated the improvement as well as any connections said colony had to its neighbourhood. The idea for this project was driven by the notion that the controlling and redirecting of movements within slums could lead to positive effects.

The research is based on and inspired by a consulting project by the company Space Syntax Limited for the Municipality of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in which the consulting company designed a regeneration program for declining informal colonies.