Incorporating Crime Into the Architectural Design and Planning Process: The "Brantingham Method" of Neighbourhood Crime Study

Mary Beth Rondeau, University of British Columbia

ABSTRACT
In the architectural design process used in north american cities, whether for a building, a city block or planning a neigbourhood, crime should be considered in the early stages. A method for incorporating crime into the architectural design process has been developed based on the work of the Brantinghams in the field of environmental criminology. This method includes analysis of information from police crime data, police patrols, the site, surrounding uses and consultation with neighbourhood groups. This method parallells the architectural design process. An example of a neighbourbood crime study in Vancouver, British Columbia will be discussed where a clear crime picture of the neighbourhood is developed. Recommendations for architectural design, planning and community programs that reduce opportunities for crime will also be presented.

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Updated 05/20/2006