This paper examines the change in the perception of the suburban from an inherently non-sustainable territory to one with environmental, social and architectural potential through a comparative analysis of the suburban in three European countries: Belgium, France and Denmark. The approach identifies urban, architectural, social and environmental constants and variables in each country in order to better illustrate the reasons for and nature of this shift of perception. The article begins with a comparative insight into the legal contexts and urban policies that have favored or limited suburban development. This review highlights how the increasing focus on sustainable development has introduced the concept of suburban transformation as an integral part of the 'urban sustainability' discourse. Several case studies of renewal initiatives in the three countries are then examined.