Design of Cities: Revised Edition - Softcover

Bacon, Edmund N

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0140042369 ISBN 13: 9780140042368

Publisher: Penguin, 1977

Synopsis

In a brilliant syntehesis of words and pictures, Edmund N. Bacon relates historical examples to modern principles of urban plannig. He vividly demonstrates how the work of great architects and planners of the past can influence subsequent develpment and be continued by later generations. By illuminating the historical background of urban design, Bacon also shows us the fundamental forces and considerations that determine the form of a great city. Perhaps the most significant of these are sumultaneous movement systems--the paths of pedestrian and vehicular traffic, public and private transportation--that serve as the dominant organizing force, and Bacon looks at movement systems in cities such as London, Rome, and New York. He also stresses the importance of designing on the city-dweller. That the centers of cities should and can be pleasant places in which to live, work, and relax is illustrated by such examples as Rotterdam and Stockholm.

About this title

Review:

"Edmund Bacon had greater impact on the planning and development of his hometown [Philadelphia] than any individual except Robert Moses in New York and Daniel Burnham in Chicago. Like Burnham, he had created a noble, logical diagram that had the power to stir the blood."
--Alexander Garvin, The American City

"Stunning illustrations . . . extraoridinarily lucid plans . . . A breakthrough in beautiful art book making."
--Architectural Forum

About the Author:

Edmund N. Bacon was born in Philadelphia and studied architecture at Cornell University and at the Cranbrook Academy of Art, under Eliel Saarinen. In 1938, after two years as a city planner in Flint, Michigan, Mr. Bacon became managing director of the Philadelphia Planning Commission from 1949 until his retirement in 1970. Under his leadership Philadeplphia became engaged in a continuous program of restoration and rebuilding that has become famous around the world. In 1971 Mr. Bacon was awarded the American Institute of Planners Distinguished Service Award for his innovations and achievements as Director of the Philadelphia City Planning Commission.

About this edition

• Publisher: Penguin
• Publication date: 1977
• ISBN 10: 0140042369
• ISBN 13: 9780140042368
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 336