Good Neighborhoods ― A Study of Intown and Suburban Residential Environments

What makes a "good neighborhood"? Can one neighborhood be good for all people? Brower's study examines the variable image of the ideal residential area in contemporary and earlier writings, from utopian visions and popular media to historical records and the findings of social science research. Brower identifies four common "ideal" neighborhood types, each providing a distinct and specific residential experience that suits a particular way of life. He details the characteristics of each of these "good neighborhoods," and argues that their coexistence in a single urban environment is not only possible, but desirable; it creates a healthy variety of residential areas that, together, suit the needs and desires of different urban dwellers. This absorbing and timely study will be of interest to scholars and professionals in urban studies, urban design and planning, environmental studies, environment psychology, and sociology.

SIDNEY BROWER is Professor of Urban Studies and Planning at the University of Maryland in College Park.