Trädgårdsstäder

Trädgårdsstäder, or garden cities, are a model of urban planning that emerged in Britain in the late 19th century. The concept was pioneered by Ebenezer Howard in his 1898 book "Tomorrow: A Peaceful Path to Real Reform," later reissued as "Garden Cities of To-morrow." Howard envisioned a synthesis of town and country, aiming to combine the social and cultural benefits of urban life with the natural beauty and open space of the countryside.

The core idea of a garden city is to create self-contained communities surrounded by a green belt of agricultural land and woodland. These settlements would be planned with a mix of housing, industry, and public amenities, all designed to be accessible within walking distance or by efficient public transport. The density of housing would be lower than in traditional cities, with ample green spaces, parks, and gardens integrated throughout the development.

Key principles of the garden city movement include planned development, community ownership of land (often through a trust), and a focus on providing a high quality of life for residents. The aim was to alleviate the overcrowding, pollution, and social problems associated with rapidly industrializing cities of the era.

The first successful garden city was Letchworth, founded in 1903, followed by Welwyn Garden City in 1920. The movement influenced urban planning worldwide, inspiring similar projects in Europe, North America, and beyond. While the original ideals have been adapted and modified over time, the garden city concept continues to inform contemporary discussions about sustainable urban development, green infrastructure, and the creation of livable communities.

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