The Image of the City (book)

*The Image of the City* by Kevin Lynch explores how people perceive and organize their mental pictures of urban environments. Lynch argues that city inhabitants create visual references—paths, edges, districts, nodes, and landmarks—that help them navigate and understand their surroundings. Clear, distinct features enhance a city's legibility, making it easier for residents and visitors to find their way and feel connected. The book emphasizes the importance of thoughtful urban design to foster these mental images, contributing to a sense of order, identity, and belonging within a city's complex landscape.