Spain lives in flats: why we have built our cities vertically (especiales.eldiario.es)

Article summary

The article explores the history and current state of urban planning in Spain, where people predominantly live in apartments, and examines the factors that have led to this phenomenon. It discusses the role of population density, migration, and government policies in shaping the country's urban landscape. The article also touches on contemporary trends in urban planning, including the pursuit of compact, complex, and cohesive cities. Spain's experience is compared to other countries, such as the Netherlands and the US, to highlight differences in approaches to density and urban development.

Main themes

• urban planning
• density and sprawl
• sustainable transportation
• housing crisis
• cultural attitudes to city living
• compact and connected cities

What commenters say

• Some people prefer living in single-family homes and find dense city living claustrophobic, while others enjoy the benefits of urban density and proximity to amenities.
• The feasibility of widespread bike usage depends on various factors, including weather, infrastructure, and cultural attitudes, with some arguing that it is not a viable option in many areas.
• Electric bikes can provide a compromise between physical activity and convenience, but may not be suitable for all types of trips or users.
• The design of cities and neighborhoods can have a significant impact on residents' quality of life, with some arguing that mixed-use development, walkability, and access to public transportation are key factors in creating livable and sustainable communities.
• The housing crisis in some countries, such as the Netherlands, is attributed to a range of factors, including a distaste for flats, limited supply of housing, and restrictive zoning regulations.
• Urban planning strategies, such as the '15-minute city' concept, aim to create more compact and connected cities, but may face challenges in implementation and acceptance by residents.
• The comparison between different countries' approaches to urban planning highlights the importance of considering local context, culture, and values in designing and developing cities.
• The role of government policies, legislation, and investment in shaping urban development and promoting sustainable transportation options is a critical factor in creating livable and environmentally friendly cities.