Density—a dirty word to many—is a crucial element in smart planning. This single-volume book manages to examine the realities behind good and bad approaches to density, and to illustrate through majestic aerial photography how the numbers tell only a small piece of the true story.

Concept

While it is a tool for planners to study the issue, the book was created with the general audience in mind as well. The pictures help in the visualization of what various degrees of density look like, enabling better-informed citizens to enter into the debate.

Content

This is really two books in one volume. First, the text section discusses approaches to density that have worked or failed and gives examples of healthy ways to incorporate density into solving many of today's thorniest planning issues. Next, the catalog relies entirely on aerial photographs and diagrams to closely examine various levels of density and what they mean for the people living in those areas.

Design & Production

The catalog-the most comprehensive visual presentation of U.S. geographic density in print-has been hailed as an extraordinarily important tool for architects and urban planners. Each of the hundreds of entries incorporates five aerial views of its subject area without making the page feel cramped or unapproachable. High-quality color printing represents the original photographs to their best effect.

The Result

A prize-winning book that works as well for the average citizen with an interest in smart planning as for the professional planner.