Part story, part atlas - this is a study of a city’s complexity. The most successful cities, the most interesting and sought-after ones, are those with an intrinsic and distinctive character that remain dynamic and relevant. They are complex and contradictory. And that is worth embracing. This is a visual, geographic and narrative journey that explains why London is the way it is today.

Using stunning maps and artful imagery, it makes a compelling case for a finer grain understanding of density through a character-based approach to planning. Each character area is broken down, exploring the characteristics and character-based development potential. For those planning and designing projects, this is a reference book for the early stages of a design project and can help to inform site analyses which form the part of most architectural commissions and urban design studies. For lovers of maps and London, it is a must-read.

Antony Rifkin is a Partner at Allies and Morrison specialises in masterplanning and is currently working on regeneration projects across the country.

Jane Manning is a Director at Allies and Morrison and has led the production of several high profile masterplans including including the Old Kent Road and Lea Bridge.

Daniel Elsea is a Director at Allies and Morrison and head of communications at the practice.

Lionel Eid is an urban designer and Associate at Allies and Morrison.

George Garofalakisis an urban designer at Allies and Morrison with extensive experience in GIS technologies.