Publisher Summary This chapter explains the importance of architectural design in the development of a city. Cities reveal a conglomeration of building forms that are sometimes jarring and occasionally pleasing. Contrasts are tremendous but harmony is rare. For many decades, there was a tendency toward the maintenance of a uniform style of architecture in the construction of university campus buildings. Classical, colonial, modernistic, or other periods characterized a particular campus. Group apartment building developments are revealing uniformity of style. Zoning laws place certain limits on heights of buildings, restrict certain projections such as balconies, fire escapes, and decorative or other overlays. To stimulate good architecture, a few organizations offer prizes for the most attractive design. Although the awards are made after the buildings are erected, it is hoped that in the long run architects might be influenced by this public interest and attempt to develop outstanding designs. In a few cities, art commissions have been appointed to advise the planning commission relative to the appropriateness of design and placement of public structures.