Why ugly buildings create NIMBYism
The article explores the theory that the aesthetic ugliness of modern buildings fuels NIMBYism and opposition to new housing developments. It distinguishes between local 'NIMBYs' and distant 'NITBYs' who oppose projects based on visual impact.
Why it matters
It offers a sociological perspective on the housing crisis and urban planning, suggesting that design quality may be a lever for policy change.
Samuel Hughes and Works in Progress Jul 31, 2026 41 5 Share This piece is featured in Issue 25 of Works in Progress, which will arrive with subscribers in the second week of August. Subscribe today to get Issue 25, and an issue every two months after, delivered straight to your door.
Artwork by Daniel Cox. Western countries used to let landowners build almost anything anywhere . Now, strict rules freeze the character of most neighborhoods, banning change and densification. Why? One theory is that modern buildings tend to be ugly, leading residents to support rules that exclude them from their neighborhoods. If this is true, then designing beautiful buildings could lead to more development. Housing reformists have vigorously debated this theory. Many British reformists are sympathetic, whereas Australian reformists tend to be skeptical, and Americans come down on both sides.
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