Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Urban Design

Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Urban Design 1. Zoning vs. Planning Zoning and planning are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Zoning refers to the division of land into different areas for specific uses, such as residential, commercial, or industrial. On the other hand, planning involves the strategic organization and development of a city, considering various factors like transportation, infrastructure, and community needs. While zoning is a part of planning, the two terms shouldn't be used interchangeably. 2. Density vs. Intensity Density and intensity are terms that refer to the concentration of buildings or activities in a given area. Density typically relates to the number of buildings or people in a specific space, while intensity refers to the level of activity or land use intensity. For example, a high-density area may have many buildings, while a high-intensity area may have a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational activities. Understanding the difference between these terms is crucial when analyzing urban spaces. 3. Facade vs. Frontage In urban design, the facade and frontage of a building are often mentioned. The facade refers to the exterior face or wall of a building, which can be highly decorative and visually appealing. On the other hand, frontage refers to the part of a building that faces a street or public space. It includes not only the facade but also elements like entrances, windows, and sidewalks.