Mid-Rise Urban Living

This book argues that the mid-rise way of urban living is an essential component of growing cities, with better economics than terrace houses or town houses. It examines successful historic precedents and contemporary examples, highlighting the advantages of demographic diversity, urban density, sociability, and reduction of car use.

Format: Hardback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 07 June 2021
Publisher: Lund Humphries Publishers Ltd

Many urban communities around the world are grappling with the proliferation of residential towers, while simultaneously acknowledging that the detached house is not a sustainable urban solution. In this context, there exists a 'missing middle' of mid-rise apartment buildings that connect to the street and are within the height of trees. This book makes a compelling argument for the mid-rise way of urban living as an essential component of growing cities. It demonstrates that the economics of this form of development are more favorable than that of terrace houses or town houses.

The book begins by exploring successful historic precedents of this housing type, such as the tenements in Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, Barcelona, and New York, as well as successful mid-rise housing developments in London. It then delves into the reasons behind the relative lack of contemporary mid-rise housing developments, including planning legislation and the perception that it is a dull and uniform building type.

To address these challenges, the book brings together and analyzes a wide range of award-winning international contemporary examples by leading architecture firms. It examines the importance of location, the need for urban placemaking, visual interest, and design diversity, as well as mixed-use precincts. The book highlights the advantages of mid-rise housing, including demographic diversity, urban density, sociability, and reduced car use.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable perspective on the mid-rise way of urban living, highlighting its potential to contribute to the growth and sustainability of cities. It provides a comprehensive analysis of successful historic precedents, discusses the challenges faced in contemporary development, and presents compelling examples of award-winning international contemporary mid-rise housing developments. By advocating for the inclusion of mid-rise apartment buildings in urban planning, this book aims to promote a more diverse and sustainable future for cities around the world.

Weight: 696g
Dimension: 197 x 257 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781848224643