housing density

Prof. Robert Ellickson of Yale Law School has an interesting paper up on the Social Science Research Network (SSRN) website.  He critciizes widespread popular support for open space, pointing out that too much open space reduces population density and thus accelerates sprawl and reduces housing... read more »

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One common argument against infill: "but there isn't room for any more people!"  (or, alternatively, "we can't have more people without turning into a skyscraper monoculture!" Manhattan is far from a skyscraper monoculture- even in midtown there are lots of 2-6 story buildings of all types.&nbs... read more »

The city of Paris is often cited by architects and planners as their favorite place to visit. Parisians and visitors alike never tire of walking her narrow, winding streets, with continuous ground level boutiques and cafes. They enjoy the quiet gardens and public places. ... read more »

A new Gfk Roper study shows Americans developing especially positive attitudes toward New Urbanism and neighborhoods where people live near each other (New Urbanism phrased another way). Judging from a report in the Denver Post, this study is a keeper. Here are a few quotes: ... read more »

Amit R. Paley surveyed the greater Washington, D.C. region to find more homeowners opting for smaller lawns or no lawn at all. While not all persons interviewed prefer less lawn, a growing number of people see lawns as a costly maintenance burden. Some feel a private lawn can be easily traded for ... read more »