New Urbanism

In the context of location intelligence and home buying, New Urbanism is a design philosophy that emphasizes the creation of vibrant, diverse, and sustainable neighborhoods. This approach to urban planning seeks to foster a strong sense of community, reduce dependence on automobiles, and promote a higher quality of life for residents.

Key principles of New Urbanism include:

1. Walkability: New Urbanist neighborhoods are designed to be pedestrian-friendly, with a network of sidewalks, trails, and interconnected streets that encourage walking and biking. This promotes physical activity, reduces traffic congestion, and enhances social interaction among neighbors.
2. Mixed-use development: New Urbanist communities integrate a variety of land uses, such as residential, commercial, and civic spaces, within close proximity to one another. This allows residents to live, work, shop, and play within their neighborhood, reducing the need for long commutes and promoting a more vibrant, 24/7 environment.
3. Diverse housing options: New Urbanist neighborhoods offer a range of housing types and sizes to accommodate various household compositions, life stages, and income levels. This diversity promotes a more inclusive and equitable community, allowing residents to age in place and maintain social connections over time.
4. Public spaces and community engagement: Well-designed public spaces, such as parks, plazas, and community centers, are integral to New Urbanist neighborhoods. These spaces provide opportunities for social interaction, recreation, and community events, fostering a strong sense of belonging and civic engagement among residents.
5. Sustainable design: New Urbanism emphasizes environmentally responsible development practices, such as preserving green spaces, promoting energy efficiency, and reducing the environmental impact of transportation. This approach aims to create more resilient and sustainable communities that can adapt to changing environmental and social conditions.

When considering a home purchase, understanding the principles of New Urbanism can help homebuyers identify neighborhoods that align with their values and lifestyle preferences. New Urbanist communities often offer a high quality of life, with amenities, services, and social connections that are easily accessible by foot or bicycle.