Allotments

Urban gardening is 'in': Currently, various initiatives are emerging in many cities to jointly utilize vacant lots and green spaces for development and recreation. While urban gardening as a trend is still a relatively young phenomenon, it is rooted in a long tradition that has always emphasized the benefits of small gardens for urban populations. This illustrated volume provides an overview of the origins, development, and design of urban small gardens, their forms, and their significance for the community. Different types of gardens are presented comparatively, their historical development is outlined, and their respective advantages are assessed: from the traditional family garden to the rental garden of classic workers' housing, to mobile community gardens or intercultural gardens. Concrete examples from Zurich and Winterthur are included.