Why is the term "townscape" or "local cityscape" used? (Author: Andreas Hawlik) The "townscape" or "local cityscape" is the appearance of the built settlement that we perceive as a coherent whole within a perceptible area. The concept of the "townscape" or "cityscape" began to be consciously addressed in the 19th century. While in the Baroque era, absolutist systems were engaged in large-scale urban development, an awareness of cultural heritage emerged together with the Romantic trends in art and architecture. Beyond the protection of monuments, the value of the everyday as part of our culture was recognised. However, the cultural speciality now lies in the fact that the "townscape" or "cityscape" is not a purely private matter, but a public one. We architects contribute to the general appearance of the public space with the buildings we design. We therefore have a special responsibility to consciously address this issue. The townscape is not only public, but also long-lasting. A "townscape" is not created overnight, but is made up of the sum of the architecture of different buildings, which are usually constructed over a period of years or decades, or even centuries in a historical context. The existing townscape may or may not be worth preserving. An intended townscape can be defined in a masterplan or a design statute and sometimes it takes decades for the intended to replace the existing. In the meantime, this design intention may already be outdated again. For example, such a stark turnaround occurred when post-war modernism was replaced by postmodernism. The ideal of a historic, compact city consisting of alleyways, streets and squares still resonates in urban planning today and aims to create public spaces in which we as human beings feel safe and at home according to our culture. In addition to the buildings, the design of the public space in particular determines the townscape. The perceived space is made up of façades, roofs and the "user interface". Materials, street furniture and greenery make a significant contribution to the townscape. Only the sky eludes our design will in the vast majority of cases - who knows for how long?