Straddling high-rises and the ivory tower, a scholar examines Chicago public housing

Defensible Space discovered that high-rise violence increased markedly in developments which exceeded six stories in height. Mothers can't see their children playing outside & residents lose connection with the public grounds just outside their doorsteps. The solution? Use architectural treatments to create semi-private spaces where residents take ownership.

In response, to this outbreak of violence mentioned in this scholarly work, the Chicago Housing Authority has demolished many of the residential highrises in favor of mid-rise construction. Diversifying this residential community further invites those financially challenged residents to learn from those more affluent living within their midst.