Attoe, Wayne.

American urban architecture : catalysts in the design of cities / Wayne Attoe and Donn Logan.

Berkeley : University of California Press, ©1989.

xv, 190 pages : illustrations ; 27 cm

Attoe and Logan propose a specifically American theory of urban design. Arguing that theories of urban design, especially theories about the remaking of cities, have been largely European in origin and thus of questionable value in American contexts, the authors see the characteristic features of American cities-the grid, loft buildings, distinctive styling, and so forth-as opportunities for a specifically American urbanism. From their own combined experience as urban architects and scholars, they have derived a theory of "catalytic architecture" suited to American circumstances, one that utilizes the "proven ingredients" of American practice. After exploring instances of failed attempts to impose European visions on an American city, the authors examine urban design successes that illustrate the principles and goals of catalytic architecture. With a series of examples-Milwaukee, Portland,Kalamazoo, Oakland, San Francisco, Glendale, and Phoenix-they make their case for urban design as a controlled evolution, conceived in terms of architectural actions and reactions. One of their critical arguments is that good design alone is an insufficient goal; urban design in America must also be strategic, responding to existing elements and guiding those that follow. American cities have often failed to control and guide the energies released in development. This is a failure, the authors argue, that "design guidance" can prevent. They provide a taxonomy of methods to guide urban design toward higher standards and better results.The authors bring to their analysis both urban design experience and scholarly understanding.Their new paradigm of urban regeneration will Interest practicing architects and urban policymakers as well as students and scholars of urban design. -- from dust jacket.

0520061527 (alk. paper)
9780520061521 (alk. paper)
0520081056 (pbk)
9780520081055 (pbk)

City planning United States.
Architecture United States.
Architecture États-Unis.
Urbanisme États-Unis.
Architecture.
City planning.
Städtebau
Stadtplanung
Art, Architecture & Applied Arts.
United States.
USA
United States Town planning

Logan, Donn.

Location: Library main 50057
Call No.: NA9105.A8 1989
Status: Available