The flip side of the suburban expansion equation is the production of semi-open space. As urbanized areas expand, their low densities permit an ensemble of connected uses to populate roofs, lawns, and interstitial spaces. By measuring these unassigned zones as portions of the urbanized area, planners and designers could assess the potential for hosting a suite of productive reuses. Distributed solar rooftops, embedded wetlands, and agricultural plots could establish a productive suburban future, tailored for each metro’s strengths.
