densifiering

Densifiering refers to the process of increasing the density of a geographic area, typically by adding more residents, workers, or built structures per unit of land. In urban planning, densifiering aims to make cities more compact by concentrating development within existing urban areas rather than allowing outward sprawl. It can be physical, through taller buildings, smaller parcels, and redevelopment, or functional, by intensifying everyday activities and services in a location.

Common strategies include infill development on vacant or underused sites, redevelopment of brownfields, adaptive reuse of existing buildings, and transit-oriented development that concentrates housing and jobs near public transport. Zoning changes, density bonuses, streamlined permitting, and public investment in infrastructure such as transit, schools, and green spaces support densifiering.

Benefits often cited are reduced travel distances and car dependence, more efficient use of infrastructure and services, increased housing supply and diversity, and lower per-capita energy use when designed well. Potential drawbacks include risk of gentrification and displacement, loss of open space, pressure on local services during transition, construction impacts, and the need to ensure social equity and inclusion.

Measurement of densifiering typically involves density metrics such as people per square kilometer or housing units per hectare, as well as indicators like floor area ratio, land-use mix, and access to transit. Effective densifiering generally requires coordinated planning, community engagement, and policies that balance housing, mobility, and public space to ensure affordable, sustainable urban growth.