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.