Currently, a majority of the world's population lives in urban areas. This percentage is expected to grow, as economic incentives pull people into urban areas. Cities must figure out how to accommodate a growing population without sacrificing fundamentals to a healthy and happy life. I also want to argue that one of the most important factors in growing urban areas is being able to maintain a place's unique sense of identity, allowing the creation or build-upon a community feel.
New models for the future are starting to develop. Well-designed urban villages, homes, and spaces that create and help build a sense of community incorporate some of the following features:
- pedestrian-oriented
- "high quality environments" - inclusion of shops, restaurants and other local facilities
- homes with space for family members to eat and relax together
- natural light
- green views
- "right" proximity to neighbors
- safe streets
- neighborhoods with destinations
- unique places with their own identities
"Imagine a world where homes, streets and neighbourhoods make you feel good about yourself, help you reach your potential, keep you healthy and safe, and support you in making good relationships. This is my vision for the housing of the future - the pursuit of well being and creation of spaces that help us to flourish." This quote from the author of the Guardian article, Elizabeth Burton, who is a professor of sustainable building design and well being at the University of Warwick, captures it all.
I like to imagine places that simply make you feel good. My intention with this blog is to explore what some of those contributing factors might be.
Source:
The Guardian
Check out the 2014 United Nations World Urbanization Prospects:
http://esa.un.org/unpd/wup/Highlights/WUP2014-Highlights.pdf
