ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the evolution of the European perimeter block as witnessed by experience in Scotland, especially that of the City of Glasgow in the nineteenth century. In Glasgow the perimeter block was adopted as the model for the reshaping of the historic centre and the expansion of the suburbs. Its dimensions were adjusted to simultaneously serve the Town Council’s need for street improvement, effective land utilisation and public health. Access to sunlight and ventilation was a critical factor in the development of the Glasgow perimeter block. In this chapter the Scottish perimeter block is compared with the Middle Eastern pattern of courtyard housing, especially in the context of three key evolutionary forces-climate, privacy and social structure. In each tradition gender zoning existed in building plan and section, and was also a major factor in urban design. The chapter concludes with the identification of parallels which allow the reader to explore possible contemporary revivals of the typology in the context of sustainable development.
