Why Doesn’t America Build Places Like This Anymore? | Michael Dennis, MIT

Why do some cities feel alive, walkable, and connected, while others seem designed around parking lots, highways, and isolated buildings? In this episode of the CNU Latino Patrimonio Series, we welcome Michael Dennis, architect, urbanist, author, and MIT Professor of Architecture Emeritus, to explore why we stopped building places the way we used to and what we can learn from cities that have stood the test of time. For generations, streets, squares, buildings, gardens, and neighborhoods worked together to create places built around everyday life. But during the twentieth century, urban development shifted toward automobile-focused planning, single-use zoning, and disconnected spaces. Through architectural plans, drawings, and examples from cities around the world, Michael Dennis explores: What makes great cities walkable, connected, and livable How streets, blocks, squares, and buildings shape our daily lives Why mixed-use neighborhoods matter How modern development changed the way American communities are built What historic cities can teach us about designing better communities today This conversation isn't about returning to the past. It's about rediscovering the principles that make places work and applying them to the future of American cities. Whether you're an architect, urban planner, developer, public official, student, or simply curious about why some places feel better than others, this conversation offers a new perspective on the built environment. About Our Guest Michael Dennis is an architect, urbanist, author, and MIT Professor of Architecture Emeritus whose work focuses on urban design, architecture, and the relationship between buildings and public spaces. About CNU Latino CNU Latino is part of the Congress for the New Urbanism community, promoting conversations about urban design, architecture, cultural heritage, and the creation of more connected, walkable communities. Subscribe for more conversations from the CNU Latino Patrimonio Series. #CNULatino #NewUrbanism #UrbanDesign #Architecture #WalkableCities #CityPlanning #MichaelDennis #UrbanPlanning