Who developed the European city model?

Unraveling the Mystery: Who Dreamed Up the “European City Model”?

So, the “European city model”—it’s not like some architect slapped a blueprint on the table one day and declared, “This is it!” Instead, think of it as a concept that’s been simmering for centuries, a delicious urban stew flavored by history, society, money, and politics. It’s more about a collection of traits and planning ideas that make European cities stand out from the crowd, especially when you compare them to cities across the pond.

A Slow and Steady Evolution:

These cities weren’t built in a day, that’s for sure. They’ve seen it all—growth spurts, quiet periods, you name it. Things like feudalism, bustling trade routes, the rise of powerful nations, and the Industrial Revolution have all left their fingerprints on the urban landscape. Interestingly, the idea of the “European city” really took off in German urban planning circles, becoming a sort of north star for how cities should be developed.

What Makes a City “European,” Anyway?

Okay, so what exactly are we talking about? Even though European cities are incredibly diverse (think Rome versus Amsterdam!), they share some DNA. Here’s a taste:

• Cozy and Compact: Unlike the sprawling suburbs of, say, Los Angeles, European cities tend to be dense and walkable, encouraging you to ditch the car and explore on foot or hop on public transport.
• A Little Bit of Everything: You’ll often find homes, shops, offices, and parks all jumbled together. This mix creates a vibrant, anything-can-happen kind of urban life.
• Everyone’s Welcome: The goal is to mix people from all walks of life, preventing those isolated, homogenous neighborhoods and fostering a sense of community.
• Parks and Plazas Galore: Public spaces act as gathering spots, where people can mingle, events can unfold, and different groups can connect.
• Public Transport is King: Forget endless traffic jams! Public transport reigns supreme, reducing the need for everyone to own a car.

The “Wilhelminian City”: A Glimpse into the Past:

Now, when people talk about the “European city,” they often picture that period from the mid-1800s to World War I—the era of the “Wilhelminian city.” This was a time of tightly packed, mixed-use neighborhoods, often built around historic centers that stretched back to Roman times, the Middle Ages, or the Renaissance.

Challenges on the Horizon:

Of course, the European city model isn’t perfect. Globalization, economic shifts, and changing social norms are constantly throwing curveballs. Some experts even worried that the “American” or “Chinese” model of the global city would take over, leaving European cities in the dust. Urban sprawl, social inequality, and the rise of big-box stores on the outskirts of town also threaten the traditional European way.

An Enduring Legacy:

But here’s the thing: the European city model is tough. Its focus on walkability, mixed-use spaces, public gathering spots, and social inclusion continues to shape urban planning, not just in Europe, but around the world. The “European city” remains a powerful symbol of what a city can be—a place of culture, community, and a darn good quality of life.

A Quick Detour: Other City Models Exist!

It’s worth remembering that the “European city model” isn’t the only game in town. Take the McGee model, for instance, developed by T.G. McGee back in 1967. It explains how land is used in medium-sized Southeast Asian cities. What’s cool is that it doesn’t have a central business district like we’re used to seeing in the West.