Well-grounded in the history and theory of Anglo-American urbanism, this illustrated textbook sets out objectives, policies and design principles for planning new communities and redeveloping existing urban neighborhoods. Drawing from their extensive experience, the authors explain how better plans (and consequently better places) can be created by applying the three-dimensional principles of urban design and physical place-making to planning problems.

Design First uses case studies from the authors' own professional projects to demonstrate how theory can be turned into effective practice, using concepts of traditional urban form to resolve contemporary planning and design issues in American communities.

The book is aimed at architects, planners, developers, planning commissioners, elected officials and citizens -- and, importantly, students of architecture and planning -- with the objective of reintegrating three-dimensional design firmly back into planning practice.

Focus and emphasis on planning by 3-D design Clear and practical presentation of how communities can improve their town planning processes Case studies illustrate the practice and implementation of ideas

About the Author
Linda Brown is a writer, critic, teacher and professional painter. A fellow of the MacDowell Colony in New Hampshire, her paintings hang in many prestigious public and private collections, including the Federal Reserve and IBM. Her art criticism has been published in regional and national magazines, including Art Papers and Ceramics Monthly. Under a pseudonym, Brown has written three novels, published in the UK. She has taught graduate courses in art criticism with an emphasis on postmodern art and architecture, and has been a public art consultant on several community design workshops.

Reviews

Years on the front lines of urban design, advocacy & teaching have equipped (the authors) with a considerable store of wisdom... - The Charlotte Observer

...for all citizens with an interest in what might be taking shape outside their front doors and down their streets. - The Charlotte Observer

....written with well-founded confidence that new planning projects in this region can hold lessons for national -- even international audiences. - The Charlotte Observer

... the book falls into the classic format epitomized by Robert Venturis' Complexity and Contradiction in Architecture. - New Urban News

The scope of the material is exhaustive. - New Urban News

The book is a lucid and welcome addition to the literature for many reasons - Planning Magazine

Book Information
ISBN 9780750659345
Author David Walters
Format Paperback
Page Count 304
Imprint Architectural Press
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 680g