Quote:
Originally Posted by Nouvellecosse
I would consider the main characteristics that differentiate urban from suburban are the distances from the sidewalk to the buildings, and the distances from one building to another (that includes both any space between two buildings side by side as well as the distance from buildings across the street due to the width of the road and medians, and the distance between any buildings behind on another street created by backyards or parking lots. The height of the buildings only plays a roll in intensity rather than urban vs suburban.
In other words, an area with abundant parking lots, set backs, and space between buildings, but with tall buildings is a high intensity suburban setting, and a space with a consistent streetwall, no surace parking, and streets not overly wide but with no tall buildings is a low intensity urban area.
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There are parts of Mississauga that are thoroughly suburban with minimal setbacks (if any) between buildings and the sidewalk. It's less built form in the way of building setbacks once a certain level of density is achieved and more about usage, long puzzle shaped blocks that doublt commuting distances and, roadside parking restrictions to allow a free flow of traffic. It's an attitude.
I've spent a couple summer holidays in Munich living in one of the many five storey walkups. It definitely provided a different feel as a pedestrian but, I can't say it was any more urban than the lowrise neighbourhoods in Toronto's downtown area.