This is a rendering of the new U.S. Embassy in London, which achieves security, not through roadblocks and concrete barriers, but through landscape architecture, such as ponds, berms and low-wall gardens.Photo: KieranTimberlake

Several years ago, the FBI announced it was looking for 10 acres in or near downtown Detroit to build a regional headquarters. The project fell through when the FBI could not find suitable space. Some people lamented the loss, but from an urban planning stance, Detroit dodged a bullet.

Security requirements for government buildings today have grown so severe that they produce bunker-like buildings surrounded by high fences and razor wire. Such security measures may be necessary in today's age of terrorism. But bunkers off-limits to the public do little or nothing to create the lively walkable places that are today's norm for urban revitalization.....Continue Reading

> via freep.com