Paris is a city of edges.  The utilization of the edge is a major aspect of the Parisian urban fabric.  Two main examples of this can be found along the Seine River and along the Champs Elysees.  These two examples are similar in the way people are drawn to them, but quite different in character and the quality, or type of occupation.  They provide different experiences  in a similar format.

The Seine River meanders through Paris and provides a serene experience for those who choose to stroll along its banks.  As an occupant you have the choice of different levels to choose from.  On the upper level the pace is a little faster due to the proximity of automobile traffic, but by moving to the lower level the traffic is buffered and you become drawn into the serenity of the water.   The Champs-Elysees is a direct route, which slashes through the center of Paris.  It is the place to see and be seen.  The pace is faster and it is a place of activity.  Ever since its conception the Champs has been a focus of high society, this is still true today.  The street pace ranges from a major city thoroughfare to semi serene Parisian cafes.  Both of these occupiable edges are similar in the way we as inhabitants have the ability to occupy them in the manner that suites us, and we can alter it at any  time.

The idea of intensity changes and variations can be seen in the way Paris streets are organized.  Major roads cut through the fabric of the city helping to organize it on a large scale while the integrity and feeling of a more pedestrian and historic street system can be found in between these major arteries.  As a pedestrian the major streets are important for orientation.

Tourism is integrated into the city.  Many spaces of most interest to tourists are also occupied frequently by Parisians.  The Parisians aren't going to give up their city for the sake of tourism. Commerce and Residential are mixed throughout the city.  The city never dies due to the integration of multiple types of program dispersed throughout the city.