PARIS – A recent social media post by urbanist Alicia, known as "Alicia, Courtyard Urbanist," has highlighted the superior design of social housing projects in Paris compared to 99% of market-rate housing in North America. The tweet specifically praised the Parisian approach of constructing small-lot buildings with minimal or no side and front setbacks, which effectively create a continuous "street wall" and enhance the overall appeal and value of urban streetscapes.
The tweet, shared by Alicia, Courtyard Urbanist, stated, > "Another social housing project in Paris that looks better than 99% of market-rate housing in North America. Small-lot buildings with no side or front setbacks create a street wall, instantly enhancing the appeal of the street and all the properties on it. Would be better with a small commercial storefront on ground floor." This observation underscores a fundamental difference in urban planning philosophies.
Parisian social housing, often referred to as HLM (habitations à loyer modéré), has a long history of integrating high-quality design into affordable living spaces. Initiatives since the 1950s, and particularly in the last two decades with the "Grand Paris" project, have emphasized elegant and functional architecture. Many contemporary Parisian social housing developments incorporate design elements like recessed balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, and patterned façades, aiming to destigmatize affordable housing through appealing aesthetics.
A key aspect of this design success is the prevalent use of street walls, where buildings are constructed directly at the property line without significant setbacks. This practice, deeply rooted in Parisian urban planning traditions like Haussmann's renovations, creates a sense of enclosure and continuity, benefiting pedestrians with shade and a more engaging street-level experience. This contrasts sharply with many North American zoning codes that mandate large setbacks, often leading to fragmented streetscapes and prioritizing space for vehicles or perceived "green space" over pedestrian vitality.
Furthermore, Parisian social housing frequently incorporates ground-floor commercial spaces, aligning with the mixed-use urban fabric of the city. Projects often include retail units, offices, or community facilities on the ground level, fostering vibrant street life and providing essential services to residents and the wider neighborhood. This integration contributes to the overall livability and economic activity of the area, a feature the urbanist Alicia suggested would further improve the highlighted project.
In North America, while some urban planning movements advocate for reduced setbacks and mixed-use development, market-rate housing often adheres to zoning regulations that enforce significant setbacks. These regulations, sometimes intended to provide light, air, or privacy, can inadvertently create less engaging and less walkable environments. The prevailing design in many North American developments often results in buildings that are isolated from the street, lacking the cohesive urban character seen in Paris.