A Good City : The Short Story – Camilla van Deurs and Jan Gehl
Do you remember the lectures, tutors and ideas that shaped your time at architecture school? Perhaps not. Camilla van Deurs does. Among those who left a lasting impression was Jan Gehl, whose influence stemmed not only from the depth of his knowledge but from his remarkable ability to communicate it.
Gehl distilled decades of research into memorable stories and observations, returning to key themes until they became second nature. His lessons have been passed from teacher to student and from one generation of architects, planners and city-makers to the next.
Good City – The Short Story brings together 24 concise and engaging reflections that translate Gehl's pioneering research into accessible insights on urban life. Through everyday examples and human-centred observations, Gehl explores the relationship between architecture and the lived experience of cities. From the humble staircase, designed with intent but often claimed by newspapers, shopping bags and daily routines, to the contrast between plans on paper and life on the street, these stories reveal how small spaces can create some of our most memorable urban experiences.
Essential reading for architects, planners, students and anyone interested in how cities work, Good City – The Short Story offers a thoughtful introduction to one of the most influential voices in contemporary urban design.
Author: Camilla van Deurs and Jan Gehl
Publisher: Danish Architectural Press
Format: Paperback
Pages: 84
ISBN: 9788774073307
Publication date: August 2025