In "New Urbanism," Robert Steuteville takes readers on an extensive journey into the principles and practices of the New Urbanism movement. This enlightening book emphasizes the significance of creating communities that are both livable and sustainable by means of thoughtful planning and design.
Steuteville begins by exploring the origins of New Urbanism, tracing its foundations back to the influential work of designers like Andrés Duany and Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk. By examining the underlying principles of New Urbanism, such as walkability, mixed-use development, and connectivity, the author highlights the key elements that contribute to the success of this approach. Throughout the book, Steuteville provides numerous examples from various locations worldwide, effectively demonstrating how these principles have been applied to foster vibrant neighborhoods.
One of the book's notable strengths is Steuteville's ability to present complex urban planning concepts in a clear and accessible manner, making it accessible to both professionals and enthusiasts alike. By providing historical context and showcasing the evolution of urban planning, the author convincingly argues for a more holistic and sustainable approach to city design.
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Moreover, the author emphasizes the importance of citizen engagement in the planning process. Steuteville devotes substantial attention to discussing the role of community input and participatory design in shaping successful New Urbanist projects. By involving residents in decision-making and design, communities can better align with the needs and values of the people who live in them.
In conclusion, "New Urbanism" by Robert Steuteville offers a comprehensive and valuable introduction to the New Urbanism movement. The book's engaging writing style, extensive examples, and practical insights make it a must-read for urban planners, architects, civic leaders, and individuals passionate about creating more livable and sustainable communities. It is a compelling resource for anyone interested in the future of our cities and the transformative power of thoughtful urban planning and design.
What are readers saying?
"New Urbanism" by Robert Steuteville has garnered a mix of opinions from its readers. Some reviewers commended the book for its comprehensive coverage of the New Urbanism concept. They appreciated how the author explained the underlying principles and strategies of this movement in urban planning and architecture. Readers found the explanations to be clear and easily understandable, making the book accessible to both professionals and general audiences. Many also valued the inclusion of real-life examples and case studies that showcased successful New Urbanism projects worldwide.
However, there were contrasting views among readers. Some felt that the book was excessively technical and dense. They believed that the author delved too deeply into the theory and history of New Urbanism, making it challenging to follow and grasp the main ideas. Additionally, a few reviewers mentioned that the book lacked a clear structure, presenting information in a somewhat disorganized manner.
Another point of contention among readers was the book's lack of updated information. Critics noted that the publication date was a few years ago, and thus, it did not address more recent developments and trends in urban planning. They suggested that an updated edition would have been more relevant and valuable.
Despite its flaws, "New Urbanism" was commended for its informative content and clear explanations of the principles behind this urban planning approach. It serves as a solid introduction to the concept of New Urbanism and could be a useful resource for those interested in the field.