Title: The 99% Invisible City: A Field Guide to the Hidden World of Everyday Design
Authors: Roman Mars and Kurt Kohlstedt
Original Publish Date: October 6, 2020
ISBN-13: 978-0358126607
Amazon ASIN: 0358126606
Link to the book on Amazon.com: The 99% Invisible City on Amazon
Genre: Nonfiction, Design, History, Architecture, Urban Planning
The 99% Invisible City explores the overlooked design elements and architectural features that shape urban life. Drawing from the popular 99% Invisible podcast, authors Roman Mars and Kurt Kohlstedt delve into the hidden stories behind everyday urban objects and structures, revealing the thoughtful design and history that contribute to the functionality and aesthetics of cities. The book encourages readers to observe and appreciate the intricacies of their urban environments, fostering a deeper connection to the places they inhabit.
In The 99% Invisible City, Roman Mars and Kurt Kohlstedt invite readers to explore the unnoticed aspects of urban design that significantly impact daily life. The book is an extension of their acclaimed podcast, 99% Invisible, and is organized into thematic sections that cover various elements of city infrastructure and design.
The authors begin by examining inconspicuous features such as utility markings on sidewalks and manhole covers. These seemingly mundane elements serve crucial functions, like indicating the presence of underground utilities or providing access points for maintenance. By uncovering the purposes behind these features, Mars and Kohlstedt highlight the complex systems that keep cities running smoothly.
Transitioning to more conspicuous aspects, the book discusses items like street signs, billboards, and emergency vehicle markings. These visible components are designed to convey information efficiently and ensure public safety. The authors delve into the design considerations that make these elements effective, such as color choices, typography, and placement, demonstrating how thoughtful design enhances urban navigation and communication.
The infrastructure section delves into the foundational systems that support urban life, including water supply networks, power grids, and transportation systems. Mars and Kohlstedt explore the historical development of these systems and the engineering challenges involved in their creation and maintenance. They also discuss how infrastructure design affects environmental sustainability and resilience in the face of natural disasters.
In the architecture section, the authors discuss the stories behind iconic structures and everyday buildings. They explore topics such as building materials, architectural styles, and the regulatory frameworks that shape urban development. The book also addresses the balance between preserving historical architecture and accommodating modern needs, illustrating the dynamic nature of urban landscapes.
Throughout the book, Mars and Kohlstedt emphasize the importance of design in creating functional, livable, and aesthetically pleasing urban environments. They encourage readers to become more observant of their surroundings and to appreciate the intricate details that often go unnoticed. By shedding light on the hidden world of everyday design, The 99% Invisible City fosters a deeper understanding of the built environment and the thoughtful planning that underlies it.