The redesign and revitalization of traditional urban centers is the cutting edge of contemporary urban planning; as evidenced by the intense public and professional attention to the rebuilding of city cores from Berlin to New York Citys "Ground Zero." Spanish and Latin American cities have never received the recognition they deserve in the urban revitalization debate; yet they offer a very relevant model for this "return to the center." These cultures have consistently embraced the notion of a city whose identity is grounded in its organic public spaces: plazas; promenades; commercial streets; and parks that invite pedestrian traffic and support a rich civic life. This groundbreaking book explores Spanish; Mexican; and Mexican-American border cities to learn what these urban areas can teach us about effectively using central public spaces to foster civic interaction; neighborhood identity; and a sense of place.Herzog weaves the book around case studies of Madrid and Barcelona; Spain; Mexico City and Quereacute;taro; Mexico; and the Tijuana-San Diego border metropolis. He examines how each of these urban areas was formed and grew through time; with attention to the design lessons of key public spaces. The book offers original and incisive discussions that challenge current urban thinking about politics and public space; globalization; and the future of privatized communities; from gated suburbs to cyberspace. Herzog argues that well-designed; human-scaled city centers are still vitally necessary for maintaining community and civic life. Applicable to urban renewal projects around the globe; Herzogs book will be important reading for planners; architects; designers; and all citizens interested in creating more livable cities.
#906753 in eBooks 2014-02-04 2014-02-04File Name: B00ERTEPCO
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. The techniques used to create the sound of the album was wonderfully illustrated. As was the discussing the lyric techniques ...By T. SpeirsI appreciated the historical context the author provided for the album. The techniques used to create the sound of the album was wonderfully illustrated. As was the discussing the lyric techniques used by Michael Stipe. I understand the abstract nature of the lyrics makes the author reluctant to put a "stake in the ground" as to their meaning; but at minimum I would have preferred a deeper exploration of potential meanings of the lyrics as opposed to the prolonged discussion of what the album meant to the author. I found it hard to connect or care about his personal experience; especially in light I wanted to better understand the album from the bands perspective.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. A must-read for R.E.M. fansBy CustomerWhen it was released in 1983; R.E.M.s first album; Murmur; immediately became one of my favorites. Sounding (and looking) completely unlike anything else at the time; the songs spoke to me even when I wasnt sure exactly what Michael Stipe was singing.After reading this excellent book from the always excellent 33-1/3 series; Im beginning to understand that maybe that was the point.The book is much more than just a lengthy review of the album; it also provides insightful background on the group and an intelligent examination of theories on songwriting; performing and recording. I listen to Murmur now with an increased sense of understanding and connection. This book is highly recommended for anyone; and absolutely esssential for the R.E.M. fan.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy Happy in AtlantaFantastic reading - amazing how many stories / anecdotes about a single LP!