This tool showcases 12 basic urban typologies of residential and mixed areas. Building types, plot sizes, public space and street-scape ranging from low to high urban densities are being displayed. The selected 12 typologies have been chosen to be easily distinguishable from one another but at the same time frequently appearing in different parts of the world. Each type is illustrated by orthophotos and street views of real world examples. Demographic figures and indicators from urban planning give an assessment of the typologies and allow for comparisons.

Through the combination of a quantitative assessment and qualitative descriptions and examples, the relation of residential developments to their urban environment is being described and evaluated. The tool helps to understand intertwined urban factors on an urban neighborhood scale like FAR in relation to plot size or value of public space. Selected examples from western countries as well as from the global south ensure a diversified approach to the topic.

Published by: UN-Habitat Headquarters
Date published: September 2014
Publication type: Planning tool – Urban Typologies (PDF)
Pages: 15