Spatial Storytelling & Urban Observation
"Tracing the City's Scars"
"Tracing the City's Scars"
Downtown Athens, GA
Spring 2026
Intro. to City Planning — University of Georgia
Spring 2026
Intro. to City Planning — University of Georgia
Tools:
Illustrator · Canva
Type:
Individual
PROJECT OVERVIEW
This project explored downtown Athens through observational mapping and spatial storytelling.
Using Kevin Lynch’s five elements as a foundation, I documented patterns of environmental stress, overlooked infrastructure, and physical deterioration across the urban landscape.
Rather than focusing on storefronts or facades, the project examined the city from ground level. I traced cracks, drainage failures, damaged pavement, invasive growth, and other subtle markers embedded within the public realm.
MY ROLE:
• I developed the project concept, conducted all field observations, created the visual narrative structure, and designed the final Pecha Kucha-style presentation.
• I also developed the thematic mapping system and character zones used to reinterpret downtown Athens through the lens of urban “scarring” and infrastructural stress.
• I also developed the thematic mapping system and character zones used to reinterpret downtown Athens through the lens of urban “scarring” and infrastructural stress.
PROCESS / THINKING
The project began with a simple observation: most people experience cities by looking up.
I became more interested in what could be understood by looking down.
Cracked sidewalks, warped storm drains, exposed roots, and fragmented pavement became indicators of deeper tensions between infrastructure, ecology, maintenance, and urban identity.
The presentation was intentionally designed without text to emphasize visual interpretation, pacing, and atmosphere. Instead of functioning as a traditional analysis board, the project operated more like a cinematic spatial essay.
FINAL OUTPUTS
