The Generators of Diversity

Understanding the Essential Elements for City Life

INTRODUCTION

Jane Jacobs and Her Urban Vision

Jane Jacobs, an American-Canadian journalist and

author, revolutionized urban planning with her
groundbreaking work, "The Death and Life of Great
American Cities."
She challenged the prevailing modernist approach
that favored large-scale projects and homogeneous
environments, advocating for the vitality of diverse
neighborhoods and mixed-use districts.
The Essence of City Diversity

ü According to Jacobs, cities are complex and

dynamic systems that depend on a variety of
factors for their vitality.
ü Diversity is one of these essential factors.
ü A diverse city is one that has a mix of people,
cultures, businesses, and land uses.
ü This diversity allows cities to be adaptable,
resilient, and innovative.
The Four Generators of Diversity

Jacobs identified four key factors that contribute to

diversity in cities:
ü Mixed primary uses: A mix of different types of
businesses and residences in a single area.
ü Small blocks: Short blocks create more opportunities
for interaction and activity.
ü Aged buildings: A mix of old and new buildings
provides a variety of architectural styles and spaces.
ü Concentration: A high concentration of people and
activities in a small area creates a sense of vibrancy
and excitement.
Mixed-Use Development

Mixed-Use Development: A Recipe for Diversity

ü Mixed-use development is a key to creating a diverse city.

ü It involves combining different types of uses, such as
residential, commercial, and retail, in a single area.
ü This type of development can create a more vibrant and
active neighborhood.

Multi-functionality of Districts

ü Districts should serve more than one

primary function, encouraging the
p re s e n c e o f p e o p l e w i t h d ive r s e
schedules and purposes.
The Benefits of Small Blocks

Small Blocks: A More Walkable City

ü Small blocks are another important
element of a diverse city.
ü They create a more walkable and
pedestrian-friendly environment.
ü Small blocks also encourage more
interaction between people and
businesses.
The Value of Aged Buildings

Aged Buildings: A Rich Tapestry of Architecture

ü Aged buildings add character and charm to a city.

ü They can also provide a variety of affordable
housing options.
ü Preserving aged buildings is important for
maintaining a city's unique identity.
The Power of Concentration Concentration: A Catalyst for Urban Vitality

ü Concentration is a key factor in creating a vibrant city.

ü It brings people and activities together in a small area,
creating a sense of energy and excitement.
ü Concentration can also support a variety of businesses
and services.
The Need for Parks

Parks: Oases in the Urban Landscape

ü Parks are another important component

of a diverse city.
ü They provide a place for people to relax,
exercise, and socialize.
ü Well-designed parks can also contribute
to the overall livability of a neighborhood.
The Role of Sidewalks

Sidewalks: The Pulse of City Life

ü Jacobs believed that sidewalks are essential to a

vibrant city life.They provide a safe and inviting
space for people to walk, meet, and interact.
ü Active sidewalks are a sign of a healthy and
thriving neighborhood.
Dispelling Myths about
Diversity

Debunking Misconceptions About Diversity

ü Jacobs challenged some of the common myths

about diversity in cities.
ü She argued that diversity does not lead to crime,
traffic congestion, or a loss of community.
ü In fact, diversity can actually be a source of
strength for cities.
The Self-Destruction of Diversity

ü Threats to Urban Vibrancy: Understanding the Destructive Forces

Jacobs identified factors that erode urban diversity, including:

1. Monofunctionality: Overemphasis on a single type of land use or activity.

2. Large-Scale Development: Massive projects that disrupt the urban fabric.
3. Lack of Maintenance: Neglecting public spaces and buildings.
4. Zoning Regulations: Overly restrictive zoning ordinances.
conclusion

ü Jacobs argues that these generators of diversity are essential for

creating a healthy and vibrant city. She believes that cities that lack
these qualities are more likely to be crime-ridden, desolate, and
economically stagnant.

ü In The Death and Life of Great American Cities, Jacobs provides

numerous examples of how these generators of diversity have
created successful cities. She also discusses the dangers of urban
renewal projects that have destroyed these qualities in many cities.

ü Jacobs' book has been highly influential in urban planning and

design. Her ideas have helped to create a new appreciation for the
importance of diversity in cities.
THANK YOU
 The Generators of Diversity

✓ Jane Jacobs, in her seminal work Death and Life of Great American Cities,
argues that diversity is essential for the vitality and livability of cities.
She identifies four key "generators of diversity" that contribute to a
city's richness and vibrancy:
1. Mixed Uses: Jacobs contends that a mix of residential, commercial,
industrial, and institutional uses within a city block creates a lively and
diverse environment. This mix of uses fosters a constant flow of people
throughout the day and night, which contributes to the safety and
vitality of the neighborhood.
2. Short Blocks and a Fine-Grained Street Grid: Jacobs argues that short
blocks and a fine-grained street grid create a more walkable and
pedestrian-friendly city. This type of urban design encourages
exploration and discovery, and it allows for a variety of small businesses
and shops to thrive.
3. Buildings of Varying Ages: Jacobs believes that a city with a mix of old
and new buildings is more interesting and diverse than one with only new
construction. Old buildings, she argues, add character and charm to a
city, while new buildings can provide much-needed housing and amenities.
4. High Density: Jacobs contends that high-density living is essential for a
thriving city. High density allows for more people and activities to be
concentrated in a smaller area, which creates a more vibrant and
exciting urban environment.
✓ Jacobs's analysis of the generators of diversity is insightful and has been
highly influential in urban planning and design. Her work has helped to
shape our understanding of what makes cities livable and sustainable, and
her ideas continue to be relevant today.
In addition to the four generators of diversity, Jacobs also identifies several
other factors that contribute to a city's vitality, including:
• Public spaces: Public spaces, such as parks, plazas, and streets, are
essential for creating a livable and vibrant city. These spaces provide
opportunities for people to gather, socialize, and enjoy the outdoors.
 • Street life: A lively and active street life is a hallmark of a great city.
This includes a mix of pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles, as well as a
variety of shops, restaurants, and other businesses.
• Safety: Safety is essential for a city to be livable and prosperous.
Jacobs argues that the best way to create a safe city is to design it in
a way that encourages natural surveillance and social interaction.
✓ Jacobs's work has had a profound impact on our understanding of cities.
Her insights into the generators of diversity and other factors that
contribute to a city's vitality have helped to shape urban planning and
design around the world. Her legacy is one of advocating for cities that
are livable, sustainable, and vibrant.

BINIYAM NEGASH

NSR/0473/13