Charles Montgomery’s Happy City: Transforming Our Lives Through Urban Design is a fascinating exploration of the profound ways our urban environments shape our well-being. At its core, the book invites readers to reimagine cities not just as collections of buildings and streets but as vibrant ecosystems that deeply influence our happiness, behaviour, and social connections. Combining compelling storytelling with meticulous research, Montgomery delivers both a wake-up call and a blueprint for urban revitalisation.
The book opens with a provocative question: Do we live in neighbourhoods that make us happy? While happiness might seem like an obvious goal, Montgomery argues that urban planning has historically prioritised economic growth, efficiency, and aesthetics over the emotional and social needs of residents. Drawing on the history of urban development, he critiques the car-centric suburban sprawl of the 20th century—a model that promised comfort and convenience but often led to long commutes, social isolation, and diminished happiness. In contrast, he envisions compact, walkable, and socially vibrant cities designed with people at their heart.
What sets Happy City apart is its interdisciplinary approach. Montgomery introduces insights from psychology, sociology, urban planning, and neuroscience to illustrate how our surroundings affect our emotions, relationships, and stress levels. He highlights the paradox of suburban living.
Montgomery’s argument extends beyond the physical aspects of urban life. He contends that happiness is not just about wealth or private luxury; it is deeply tied to social interaction and community. Pursuit of privacy and material possessions, often associated with suburban living, has not made people happier. He explains that while larger homes and personal space promise comfort, they often lead to isolation and longer commutes, which reduce opportunities for social interaction and community engagement. Montgomery highlights studies showing that happiness is more closely tied to relationships and social connection than to wealth or ownership. Research shows that residents of walkable neighbourhoods with accessible public spaces report stronger social ties and higher levels of satisfaction than those who live in isolated or car-dependent areas. He asserts that by redesigning cities to prioritise inclusivity and connection, we can combat loneliness, reduce inequality, and improve public health.
One of the book’s strengths lies in its vivid case studies from cities around the world. A particularly striking example is Bogotá under Enrique Peñalosa’s leadership. As mayor, Peñalosa championed policies that prioritised pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit over cars, transforming chaotic streets into equitable and vibrant public spaces. Bogotá’s bus rapid transit system and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure serve as a model for sustainable urban development. Another inspiring case is New York City’s High Line, a disused railway turned into an elevated public park. This innovative reuse of urban space has created a joyful, community-oriented hub in the heart of the city. Similarly, Copenhagen’s cyclist-friendly infrastructure demonstrates how investing in active transportation can enhance public happiness and connectivity.
Montgomery challenges readers to look beyond individual desires and consider the collective good. This ethos resonates strongly in a world grappling with climate change, inequality, and a widespread mental health crisis. By advocating for urban design that prioritises people over profit and community over cars, Montgomery reframes city planning as not just a technical pursuit but a deeply ethical one. He also emphasises the power of incremental change, showing how small interventions—like adding bike lanes, creating public parks, or improving public transit—can lead to significant improvements in happiness and sustainability.
These ideas echo the wisdom of urban thinker Jane Jacobs, whose concept of “eyes on the street” emphasised the importance of human connection in creating safe, vibrant communities. Montgomery builds on Jacobs’s legacy, arguing that cities thrive when designed to encourage interaction and foster a sense of community.
Montgomery’s accessible and engaging writing is one of the book’s major strengths. He seamlessly blends personal anecdotes with rigorous analysis, making complex ideas approachable for a broad audience, from urban planners and policymakers to curious readers. Despite tackling serious challenges, his tone remains optimistic and talks about the potential for positive change even in difficult circumstances.
Happy City is an essential read for anyone interested in the intersection of urban design and human well-being. Montgomery challenges conventional notions of city planning, offering a vision of cities that prioritise happiness and community. Through vivid storytelling and evidence-based arguments, he inspires hope for a future where cities are not just places to live but catalysts for thriving, connected lives.
