Urban Design Vocabulary

dividing land into areas designated for specific uses

“Zoning separates industrial from residential areas.”

the concentration of people or buildings in an area

“High density enables efficient public transit.”

the distance a building must be from property lines

“Setback requirements created space for sidewalks.”

combining residential, commercial, and other uses in one area

“Mixed-use development reduces car dependency.”

the shared spaces between buildings in cities

“Plazas and sidewalks form the public realm.”

the visual character of a street

“Trees and benches improved the streetscape.”

unplanned, low-density expansion of cities

“Urban sprawl increased commuting times.”

development on vacant or underused land within existing areas

“Infill development revitalized the downtown.”

dense, walkable communities around transit stations

“Transit-oriented development reduced car use.”

renovation of deteriorating areas, often displacing residents

“Gentrification transformed the neighborhood but raised rents.”