This blog exists as an ongoing conversation regarding the ideas and principals of New Urbanism, and how they may best be applied to Oak Cliff. Its role is to engage, opine, and clarify interpretations on the meaning thereof.
Many planners, and architects loosely use the term New Urbanism when describing their projects. This can often lead to confusion on the movements true definition. First and foremost, it may be easiest to describe what New Urbanism isn’t:
- It is not an architectural movement, though when applied, it does inform architecture.
- It is not a cure all for building a community, though it can improve area economics, raise property values, and calm traffic.
Diverse, walkable neighborhoods are what distinguish New Urbanism from other modern development styles.
New Urbanists promote a return to the traditional town planning that defines places like downtown Charleston, South Carolina; old town Alexandria, Va., and historic Georgetown in Washington DC. These traditional neighborhoods feature walkable Main Street shopping districts, downtown parks, and grid streets.
Core principles of New Urbanism:
Walkability:
Basic goods and services are available within a five-minute walk. Sidewalks, narrow streets, and proximity of commercial and residential areas facilitate walking.
De-emphasize the car:
Garages are hidden in alleys, out of sight. Parallel street parking replaces the parking lot.
Mix:
Traditional suburbs put homes in one area, schools in another and shopping in yet a third. New Urbanists mix building types, sizes and prices. A modest townhouse or duplex cozies up to large single family home, which may have a rental apartment over its garage. Apartments are built over street level stores.
Community:
New Urbanist design encourages human interaction by keeping houses close to each other and close to the street. Residents gather on front porches, in nearby parks and on open plazas. Neighbors share driveways, walkways and alleys.
