The History and the Flaws of the Cul-de-Sac

This episode of 99% Invisible looks into the history of the cul-de-sac, and why its design flaws overpower its benefits.

1 minute read

June 21, 2011, 12:00 PM PDT

By Nate Berg

"When people critique cul-de-sacs, a lot of the time, they're actually critiquing the suburbs more generally. The cul-de-sac has become sort of like the mascot of the suburbs– like if suburbia had a flag, it would have a picture of a cul-de-sac on it. Cul-de-sacs by definition aren't well connected to other streets and they are far away town centers. People can argue whether or not these are pros or cons, depending on what lifestyle choices they prioritize. For little kids, cul-de-sacs can be great, but they do have some real, quantifiable design flaws."

And through the lens of the film E.T., the cul-de-sac is explored as an example of some of the pros, but the piece also delves into the street design's flaws.

FULL STORY: Episode 29- Cul de Sac

Saturday, June 18, 2011 in 99% Invisible

History / Preservation Infrastructure Land Use Transportation Urban Development United States Urban Design Suburbs Street Design cul-de-sac View More

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I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

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