David Boeck, an associate professor with the Division of Architecture, has been collaborating with the City of Norman and the Norman Police Department in order to implement “Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design” (CPTED) into the design standards of Norman.
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) is a design concept that promotes the use of urban and architectural design and management of natural areas to deter criminal activity. Implemented in cities like Aliso Viejo, California, CPTED heavily focuses on access and visibility. Boeck explains, “You want to look at where the stairs are, the entrance points, the elevators and the lighting, because visual access improves safety. It’s all about creating a safer community and a safer city.”
CPTED has been incorporated into many aspects of the built environment in Norman over the years, even unintentionally. Public art installations like the bike rack sculptures that line Main Street or a conversion to brighter, outdoor LED lights are both actions in Norman that help promote CPTED.
The Norman Police Department has been working with apartment complexes in Norman for nearly a decade to incorporate CPTED and receive a Crime Free Multi-Housing certification. An example of a design suggestion in place for the Crime Free certification is to plant a dagger plant outside of first-floor windows to deter burglaries.
While CPTED has not been implemented into Norman’s building codes, Norman City Manager Darren Pyle recognizes the merits of CPTED and sees a future for its further implementation in Norman, especially as the city grows.
This article was adopted from an article in the Norman Transcript, subscription is required.
Gibbs College of Architecture is pleased to announce that alumnus Gary Armbruster, FAIA, ALEP was one of five individuals nationally named an "ICON in Education." Learning By Design magazine, in partnership with Tarkett North America.
The Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture mourns the passing of alumnus J. Todd Scott, FAIA, whose career was dedicated to documenting, preserving and reimagining historic architecture across the country.
The Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture announces John Harris as Associate Dean for Research ad interim, effective Aug. 25, 2026, until the permanent position is filled.
