Cities is one of those books from the 1960s when idealism in city planning was blooming, design was a valuable commodity, environmentalism was new and cities were just beginning their comeback. [The MIT Press, Cambridge, MA, 1963.]
People like Halprin led the way with lofty ideals and ideas, strong skills and a classical foundation in history, design and the expression of thought. Cities is a book containing all these things; plus photos and sketches galore to illustrate Halprin’s point of view. A “must read” for urban designers and others so inclined. His work at Ghirardelli Square, Nicollet Avenue and the Portland parks represent his thoughtful and sensitive approach to the public realm. All are remarkable achievements that set the tone for the urban resurgence that America has been experiencing ever since.