THE ROLE OF EDGES AND STREETS IN RELATION TO PHYSICAL LINKAGE IN INFORMAL PARTS OF THE CITY (Case Studies: Hegarmanah and Ciumbuleuit sub-districts, Bandung, Indonesia)

Exchange between people and the environment is a relevant element as we experience space through physical connection. Boundaries can be represented by edges and streets, lack of permeability and connectivity can become a phenomenon that affects informal areas through narrowing of streets, road blockages, forms of control. This research aims to investigate physical linkage and connectivity in the integration between formal and informal areas of the city, identifying how edges and streets play a role as contributors or barriers.  Qualitative method is applied through investigative approach, to identify how integration is prevented. The objective is to describe the complexity in the interaction between formal and informal areas, the built-form and open space. Hegarmanah and Ciumbuleuit subdistricts in Bandung will be analysed. Findings show Hegarmanah as an enclosed configuration with more incidence of controlled areas, physical barriers, restrictions, circulation limitations. Ciumbuleuit presents less controlled areas, encouraging use of public space, services, commerce, commuting; interaction between pedestrians and built environment has experienced more adaptation, through open configuration. The coexistence of formal and informal urban areas has been endangered due to isolation and the way linkage is established. Physical linkage is restricted because of space configuration, borders and forms of control, obstructing integration process, impairing connectivity, encouraging spatial segregation. Finally, integration will be stimulated when space is articulated and able to adapt.