Urban development has become an increasingly important issue as city populations continue to grow. While some people argue that cities should expand horizontally with low-rise housing, others believe that vertical development with high-rise buildings is a better solution. Although horizontal cities may offer a more comfortable living environment, I believe that vertical development is more practical in modern urban development.
On the one hand, horizontal cities are often considered more pleasant places to live. Low-rise housing usually provides residents with more personal space, quieter neighbourhoods, and closer contact with nature. Many people also prefer having private gardens and more spacious living areas, which are obviously scarce in crowded urban centres. As a result, horizontal development can improve quality of life, especially for individuals who prioritise a tranquil and spacious living environment.
On the other hand, vertical cities offer significant advantages in terms of land use and urban efficiency. When urban populations increase, expanding cities horizontally can lead to urban sprawl, longer commuting distances, and greater dependence on private vehicles. In contrast, high-rise buildings make it possible to accommodate large numbers of dwellers within limited land areas. In addition, vertical development can also simplify public transportation systems as well as provide accessibility to essential services such as hospitals, schools, and work places within a smaller area.
In conclusion, while horizontal cities may offer a more comfortable lifestyle, vertical cities can be a better approach in terms of sustainability and efficiency to urban development. Therefore, vertical development is likely to be the more suitable model for modern cities finding solutions for rapid population expansion.