"Only that which the viewer can see and hold in view has artistic value." (Camillo Sitte, 1843-1903)

Long before urban design was guided by optimisation algorithms, Camillo Sitte understood something simple: cities should feel good to walk through.

Not just efficien, but beautiful, inviting, and a little bit unpredictable.

Today, those principles have been mostly paved over. But Sitte’s insights still shine, especially when you realise that your favourite streets probably don’t follow the rules. They follow rhythm, texture and surprise.

Even neuroscience agrees.

Read the full post on why your brain prefers winding streets to modern urbanisme.

written by Helen M. Krauss