Dense cities, argues Daniel Garst, are shaped like a pyramid, with the most density in the middle and sloping sides. Beijing, on the other hand, has developed more like a circus tent, with density at the sides but single-story homes in the middle.
While the low-level homes are packed tightly together, says Garst, they'll never reach the density of tall apartment buildings. The result is a sprawling metropolis, and Beijing residents spend a lot of time commuting.
Garst's solution? Get out of town:
"One solution is to channel growth to Beijing's satellite cities. This is, in fact, already starting to happen because many of those who are able to, voting with their feet and choosing to live in places like Shunyi for better air and easier access to outdoor recreational activities."
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Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
New York City School Construction Authority
Village of Glen Ellyn
Central Transportation Planning Staff/Boston Region MPO
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions