Urban Revival Increases Need for Places for Mental Renewal

"Much of the emphasis in placemaking today is about creating liveliness, public spaces that attract people," writes Benfield. "I fully support that goal, especially in cities and in neighborhoods that have been disinvested and dormant for decades, as so many of our inner city communities have been.  I am proud to be part of the grand team of people who cherish robust city markets, squares, and so on.  We need more of them."

"But, for me at least – maybe it’s an introvert thing? – the places of quiet retreat are every bit as important, and especially so in large, busy cities and dense neighborhoods."