Abstract Summary
Urban densification is considered one of the key development strategies and policies used. With the advent of Khartoum Structure Plan and its densification policy, the concept becomes central to both public and private institutions. Nonetheless most of the current densification policies foresee it from the perspective of increasing building heights and development right. Little attention was given to other densification typologies that are observed in many urban areas in Khartoum, notably in Omdurman and Tuti Island. The objectives of this research are to identify the prevailing densification patterns in Tuti and thus assess densification means adopted in each of the patterns. The research also aims at identifying the factors that shaped these densification patterns and structure. The latter was achieved through a study of urban patterns in term of physical character and various densification measurements. This research utilized explorative approach, which was based on inductive and deductive reasoning concerning the physical characteristics of the built form. Data was collected through secondary data investigation and direct observation through studying physical features of the area coupled with questionnaires and interviews. The conclusions drawn by this research signify that Tuti’s traditional building pattern which is characterized by its compacted and narrow streets is the most densified zone among all other building patterns observed in Tuti. The research also concluded that the factors that shaped the identified density and urban patterns are economic and social changes that the study area has witnessed. Last not least, the research concluded that horizontal densification can compete and be as effective as vertical densification if not superior in term of its nature and respect socio-economical values and norms of the local community. Therefore this research recommends conducting further empirical research on the subject to underpin and develop alternative densification model that can suit Khartoum’s traditional and old settlements.
