This study proposed obstacles in the brownfield development and analyzed 3 classical cases of brownfield development:German Ruhr Industrial Area,the American Automobile City and 798 Art Zone in China.Based on the comprehensive elaboration and evaluation of the driving factors,patterns,rehabilitation benefits,costs and prospects of brownfield development,its enlightenment on urban development of China was summarized from 4 perspectives:inhibiting urban sprawl,improving environmental quality of brownfield,promoting urban renewal and reserving cultural heritage.