ABSTRACT
Chapter 2 introduces generative urban design theory (as developed by Christopher Alexander and Nikos Salingaros). Generative design theories are relatively young, but generatively built environments have a long history. The theories are summarized, giving an overview of major seminal theories of Alexander and his contemporaries as they pertain to incremental, generative design and development. These include the constructs of pattern language, living structure, degrees of life, wholeness, the theory of centers and features of generative processes. The chapter also provides a rationale for studying Istanbul’s informal settlements through the lens of generative urban design: the book attempts to expand generative design theory and provides a modern example of generatively built places.
