Moderate Density - a conribution to planning theory

On the one hand, density is a characteristic, a point of identification, and a determining factor for urban development; on the other hand, it is both a prerequisite and an obstacle to high-quality urban development. Density is often a measure of the efficiency of urban technical and social infrastructure, as well as of affordable housing. Higher density is also associated with a reduction of land take. On the other hand, however, too much density can lead to a loss of quality of life. For decades, urban planners have advocated for “moderate density” without being able to define exactly what “moderate” means. The goal of this research project is to examine “moderate density” from various perspectives using the Vienna metropolitan area as a case study, and to answer the question of what is meant by “moderate density” and what criteria could be used to define it.