Urban designers offer an environmentally sustainable vision for the future of Australian cities in this illustrated overview, taking care to address the gap between current planning and the predicted growth of the country's population. Sections focus on eight Australian cities in the near future (2012-56) and Australian mega regions and new cities in the long term (2101). There are also essays on issues such as urban resilience and adaptation, making Australian cities more efficient, and cities as water catchments. A section of designs highlights realistic and more visionary cities, including a new national urban green network. The book is profusely illustrated with color photo-illustrations, straight photos, architectural images, charts, and maps. Authors Weller and Bolleter are affiliated with the University of Western Australia's Australian Urban Design Research Center. Distributed in the US by ISBS. Annotation ©2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
How will Australia creatively plan for a population of 62 million by 2100? The country's current major city planning frameworks only account for an extra 5.5 million people. Whether a 'Big Australia' is wanted or not, the country's 21st century is likely to see rapid and continual growth - and if Australians want livable, highly functioning cities and regional centers, they need to think outside the box. Authors Richard Weller and Julian Bolleter offer optimistic and creative solutions for the future with one imperative: whatever Australians elect to build during this century will make or break the country. *** "Anyone interested in population studies, land use planning, natural resources, or urban studies likely will find this book useful. The many maps and charts are filled with data that thoroughly and concisely explain points made in the text. Highly recommended." - Choice, Vol. 51, No. 1, September 2013
