In view of progressive landscape use and the growing flow of traffic, the discussion of the reasonable degree of construction density is becoming increasingly heated. Actual values and insights on which form of development creates the most pleasant living spaces are still missing.

This book offers a thorough study of the relationship between the characteristics of construction density and the ensuing atmospheres, distribution of uses and their value. 36 case study examples in Zurich, Vienna, Munich and Berlin were documented and assessed, from the outskirts to the center of the city with photographs and detailed map material according to nine (9) density categories that take public space into account. This leads to a unique compendium on the character of Central European urban spaces!