The theme of public spaces has been renegotiated in the 21st century. Everywhere in Europe, there are calls for car-free, climate-compatible, diversely usable and aesthetically attractive places where people can gather. Squares play a key role in this respect.

New Public Spaces presents 32 urban squares from 16 European countries, which have been designed or redesigned during the first two decades of this century. Following an introduction to current debate and a presentation of methods to handle the organisation and design of such places, the eight chapters in this volume present selected examples with detailed analysis.