New urbanism concept

New Urbanism is an urban design movement that emerged in the 1980s, which emphasizes the creation of walkable, mixed-use, and sustainable communities. The concept is based on the idea that traditional urban neighborhoods, which were built before the advent of the automobile, were more livable and sustainable than modern suburban developments.

The core principles of New Urbanism include:

  1. Mixed-use development: Combining residential, commercial, and recreational spaces in close proximity to create a vibrant and diverse community.
  2. Walkability: Designing streets and public spaces that are pedestrian-friendly, with a focus on walking, cycling, and public transportation.
  3. Mixed-income housing: Incorporating a range of housing types and prices to create a diverse and inclusive community.
  4. Community engagement: Encouraging community involvement and participation in the design and development process.
  5. Sustainable design: Incorporating green spaces, renewable energy, and water conservation measures to reduce the community's environmental impact.
  6. Traditional neighborhood design: Emulating the traditional urban patterns of the past, with a focus on narrow streets, alleys, and public squares.
  7. Transit-oriented development: Locating development near public transportation hubs to reduce reliance on cars and promote more sustainable transportation options.

Some of the key features of New Urbanist communities include:

  1. Grid patterns: Streets and blocks are arranged in a grid pattern to create a sense of order and organization.
  2. Public spaces: Parks, plazas, and other public spaces are designed to be inviting and accessible to all.
  3. Mixed-use buildings: Buildings that combine residential, commercial, and recreational spaces are common in New Urbanist communities.
  4. Pedestrian-friendly infrastructure: Wide sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian-only zones are designed to prioritize pedestrian safety and comfort.
  5. Green infrastructure: Green spaces, parks, and gardens are incorporated into the design to provide recreational areas and mitigate the urban heat island effect.

Examples of New Urbanist communities include:

  1. Seaside, Florida: A planned community designed by Andres Duany and Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk, which has become a model for New Urbanist development.
  2. Columbia, Maryland: A planned community designed by James Rouse, which combines residential, commercial, and recreational spaces in a walkable and sustainable community.
  3. The Pearl, Portland, Oregon: A mixed-use development that combines residential, commercial, and recreational spaces in a vibrant and sustainable community.

New Urbanism has been influential in shaping urban design and development policies, and has been credited with helping to revitalize urban areas and promote more sustainable and livable communities.