# The general theory of urbanization

By [Brandon Donnelly](https://brandondonnelly.com) · 2021-06-11

archdaily, architecture, barcelona, belo-horizonte, ildefons-cerda, overview, the-overview-effect, urbanism, urbanization

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![](https://storage.googleapis.com/papyrus_images/b7581eb69e6b098eb3569e933ecdf521.jpg)

I have come to the realization that I don't get nearly enough emails throughout the day (sarcasm), and so I've just subscribed to [Overview's daily post](https://www.over-view.com/daily/).

Overview is a company that uses satellite and aerial imagery to show how humans and natural forces are shaping the earth. In addition to a daily post, their work includes stories, books, prints, and various other projects and collaborations. It's pretty cool stuff.

One example of a partnership is [this one here with ArchDaily](https://www.archdaily.com/962819/types-of-urban-blocks-different-ways-of-occupying-the-city), where they look at urban block patterns around the world. Everywhere from Barcelona to Belo Horizonte. I think many of you will enjoy flipping through these aerials.

And if you're interested in this topic (you know, urban morphology), you may also enjoy [this book by Ildefons Cerdà](https://actar.com/product/general-theory-of-urbanization-1867/) called, _The General Theory of Urbanization 1867_. Cerdà, and his work, were instrumental in shaping Barcelona at a time when the word "urbanization" didn't even really exist.

_Photo by_ [_Kaspars Upmanis_](https://unsplash.com/@upmanis?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText) _on_ [_Unsplash_](https://unsplash.com/?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText)

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*Originally published on [Brandon Donnelly](https://brandondonnelly.com/the-general-theory-of-urbanization)*