New Urbanism

Definition

New Urbanism is an urban design movement that promotes walkable neighborhoods, diverse land uses, and sustainable communities. This approach emphasizes the importance of creating spaces where people can live, work, and play in close proximity, ultimately fostering a sense of community and reducing reliance on automobiles. It connects to sustainable architecture by advocating for designs that support environmental sustainability and social interaction.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. New Urbanism emerged in the 1980s as a response to suburban sprawl and the negative impacts of car-centric urban planning.
2. The movement emphasizes pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, compact building designs, and public spaces that encourage social interaction.
3. New Urbanism promotes diverse housing options to cater to different income levels and demographics within a community.
4. Key principles include integrating transportation options, preserving open spaces, and designing neighborhoods that reflect local culture and identity.
5. Notable projects influenced by New Urbanism include Seaside in Florida and Celebration in Orlando, which exemplify walkable community designs.

Review Questions

• How does New Urbanism address the challenges posed by suburban sprawl?
  • New Urbanism tackles suburban sprawl by promoting compact, walkable communities that reduce the need for cars. By designing neighborhoods with mixed uses, residents can easily access work, shops, and recreational areas on foot or by bike. This not only encourages a healthier lifestyle but also fosters stronger social ties among residents, creating a sense of community that is often lacking in sprawling suburbs.
• In what ways does New Urbanism integrate with sustainable architecture principles?
  • New Urbanism complements sustainable architecture by emphasizing energy-efficient buildings and environmentally friendly practices. The focus on mixed-use developments reduces the ecological footprint by minimizing travel distances and preserving green spaces. Additionally, New Urbanist designs often incorporate sustainable materials and technologies that enhance the resilience of communities while promoting overall environmental stewardship.
• Evaluate the impact of New Urbanism on contemporary American urban design and its influence on influential architects in the 20th and 21st centuries.
  • New Urbanism has significantly shaped contemporary American urban design by introducing principles that prioritize human-scale development and community engagement. Influential architects like Andrés Duany and Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk have championed these ideas, leading to a resurgence of interest in creating livable cities. Their work has inspired a generation of architects to rethink conventional design practices, promoting concepts such as mixed-use spaces and transit-oriented development that respond to both environmental concerns and social needs.

Related terms

Smart Growth: A planning approach that encourages sustainable urban development by focusing on efficient land use, transportation options, and preservation of green spaces.

Mixed-Use Development: A type of urban development that blends residential, commercial, and recreational spaces to create vibrant, multifunctional neighborhoods.

Transit-Oriented Development: A design strategy that focuses on creating dense, walkable communities around public transportation hubs to promote accessibility and reduce car dependency.