The book is based on the major conference on neighborhood conservation that was held in New York City in September 1975, sponsored by The National Endowment for the Arts, The Conservation Foundation, The State of New York and The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission. After and introductory survey of the state of the art, the book focuses on the findings of the conference, its mood, participants, and recommendations for the future.

This book is the definitive reference work on neighborhood conservation, essential reading for all architects, urban planners, community groups, corporate policy makers, developers, and local, state, and federal officials concerned with environmental decision making.