The Image of the City (Kevin Lynch)

"The Image of the City" by Kevin Lynch explores how people perceive and navigate urban environments. Lynch identifies five key elements that shape city experiences: paths (routes people travel), edges (boundaries like rivers or walls), districts (distinct areas with common characteristics), nodes (important points like squares or intersections), and landmarks (notable objects or structures). He emphasizes that a clear mental image of a city enhances the ability to understand and interact with it, ultimately influencing urban planning and design to create more livable, accessible spaces that resonate with residents and visitors alike.