Lessons in Urban Sprawl (or Why Go High Density)

I've worked with high density buildings for a long time so for me it's natural to think that high density housing is normal, workable and desirable.  You're probably the same.  


But many people don't see it that way and favour low density sub-urban models for housing.  And, despite the many voices against urban sprawl it just keeps on happening.  So, it's good to remind everyone why urban sprawl is unsustainable and wrong.  


Now I've come across Aaron M Renn, who calls himself the Urbanophile, who is passionate about cities and says "I love cities.  They're magical places".  His blog and website is a treasure trove of information about city living and development and all the benefits that it brings - so check it out.


One of the more interesting things he features is the urban sprawl maps of US cities showing how far they've grown (out) over the last 50 years.  Like metropolitan Buffalo from 1950 onwards.

It's a pattern that's repeating itself all over the world to everyone's detriment.  So, let's re-think it before it's too late.




Francesco ...