Fundamentals of Urban Design

Rating:
Summary: The Basics
Review: Although the pictures look a bit dated this is an excellent introduction to urban design-or the aesthetic, functional and phycological effects of architecture and layout in the urban area. As a text book for students or the interested citizen, it would be a good first read. Unfortunately, it comes across as anti-modernism through its almost angry condemnation of modern arcitecture's disreguard for urban cohesiveness. What it is really trying to say is that the extreme contrast of modern architecture with older urban buildings should be used very carefully and should not damage the aesthetics of urban areas.

The APA did a good job and this book delivers just what the title promises.