Civic Studio’s approach to contextual masterplanning has set a new standard by researching and mapping the ‘DNA of the urban fabric’ through the use of Pattern Books ahead of any design and this has proven to be critical to working effectively with local residents and stakeholders. The approach taken is one of developing a deep understanding of place through extensive local consultation, research and site visits and then undertaking an iterative approach to design getting feedback at all stages.
Erik D. Watson
Erik is the principal and founder of Civic Studio Urban Design. Formerly the visionary masterplanning director at two of the UK’s top town planning practices in London where he designed and led a number of prominent UK urban extensions over the last 20 years. Pioneering the approach of Contextual Masterplanning using Townscape Pattern Books which endeavour to understand the ‘DNA of Place’ and inform the masterplanning process, Erik has designed over 50 masterplans in the United Kingdom, Middle East and Canada using this philosophy, including: Cambridge, Chichester, Jeddah, London, Potters Bar, Stamford, Thame and Vancouver.
Erik completed Masters’ Degrees in Planning at the University of British Columbia and Urban Design at the Edinburgh College of Art/Heriot-Watt University where he received a Distinction and was the recipient of the Andrew Grant Award. Erik is also a member of the Canadian Institute of Planners and the Planning Institute of British Columbia. Before studying in Edinburgh, Erik was a city planner with the Central Area Division of the City of Vancouver where he specialized in community consultation.
