ABSTRACT

The nineteenth-century urban block seems to be enjoying a renaissance. In

modified form, the block appears in a number of current masterplans such as

those of Berlin, Paris Bercy and Barcelona. In Berlin, the nineteenth-century

quarters constituted by the block are currently the most desirable kind of real

estate due to their dynamic mix of functions and the vibrant street life of their

neighbourhoods. A number of spatial qualities have enabled the block to

accommodate a variety of changing uses and populations from the time of its

proliferation in the 1860s to the present day. Generous and undifferentiated

spaces in its interior allow for diverse and changing requirements; they can be

used for both living and working, accommodating light industry, office spaces

and dwellings simultaneously. The spatial organization of the block draws its

interior and exterior spaces closely together such that programmatic activity

can evolve fluidly from the street into the courtyards. This supports a flexible

gradation from public to private space, while also promoting a distinct

neighbourhood identity.