The purpose ofthis paper is to explore some ofthe reasons for suburban resistance to higher-density housing developments and to propose some policies which will address underlying concerns without sacrificing the density itself. Threecasesare examined where a parcel of land was developed amid existing singlfamily neighborhoods. Aside from opposition to socio­ economic and racial integration, the dominant concerns were the physical character of the new development-the size of the abuildings and the quality of construction and maintenance-and a fear of (overall) change in the physical character of the existing neighborhood.

The purpose of the study summarized in this article was to explore which physical characteristics influence people's perception of density on urban residential streets. Three streets in San Francisco, California, were evaluated and compared in terms of visual characteris­ tics, such as variety and distinctness of form, colors, materials, and patterns. These measurements were compared to the perceived density of these streets as indicated by both residents and non-residents. The study found three physical characteristics to be very strongly associated with perceptions of lower density: (1) greater building articulation; (2) less facade area or smaller buildings; (3) a greater number of "house"-like dwellings. These findings have significant implications for urban policy and design practice.