How to Create a Figure Ground Map in 5 Minutes

What is a Figure Ground Map?

A figure ground map is a graphic representation of urban form that shows the relationship between built and unbuilt space. Buildings are shown as solid black shapes (figure) against a white background (ground), creating a powerful visual that reveals urban patterns, density, and spatial relationships.

Why Architects Use Figure Ground Maps

Figure ground maps are essential for:

• Site Analysis: Understanding the urban context of your project site
• Urban Studies: Analyzing city morphology and development patterns
• Presentations: Creating compelling visuals for juries and clients
• Design Development: Identifying opportunities and constraints

The Traditional Way (3+ Hours)

Traditionally, creating a figure ground map required:

• Downloading OpenStreetMap data or CAD files
• Opening QGIS or similar GIS software
• Filtering building footprints
• Styling layers correctly
• Exporting and cleaning up in Illustrator
• Fixing broken paths and organizing layers

This process takes 3-6 hours for someone experienced with GIS tools.

The ArchiKEK Way (30 Seconds)

With ArchiKEK, the process is simple:

• Go to archikek.com and click "Start Creating"
• Search for your location or navigate on the map
• Select "Figure Ground" theme from the theme panel
• Click Preview to see your map instantly
• Download your SVG with organized layers

That's it. Your figure ground map is ready to use in Illustrator with all layers properly organized.

Tips for Great Figure Ground Maps

Choose the Right Scale

• 500m: Detailed neighborhood analysis
• 1000m: District-level context
• 2000m: City-wide patterns

Consider Your Context

Some areas work better than others for figure ground:

• Dense urban centers show clear patterns
• Suburban areas may appear sparse
• Historic districts often have interesting morphology

Post-Processing in Illustrator

Your ArchiKEK export comes with organized layers:

• Buildings layer (the figure)
• Background layer (the ground)
• Optional: roads, water, green spaces

You can easily adjust colors, add your site boundary, or combine with other analysis layers.

Ready to Try?

Create your first figure ground map in seconds. No account required for preview.

Start Creating →