It needs to be easier to build great cities. Our City Design practice engages communities on all aspects of city-building. We shape local aspirations and address civic needs with policies and designs that reflect the uniqueness to each setting, are self-sustaining, and are simple to use.
We use a design-based approach to simplify the planning and development of cities, focusing on the building blocks of the community — systems, patterns, and types.
Defining systems
The systems of development, including natural features, connectivity, destinations, and economic markets, define the community at the citywide/regional scale.
Forming patterns
The patterns of development, including civic and open space, land use, street networks, and market strategies, define a community at the neighborhood and district scale.
Specifying types
The types of development, including streetscapes and open spaces, buildings, streets, and other capital improvements, define the city at the block and lot scale. We use this organization to specify the context and places to create authentic great cities.
