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Redesigning houses AND neighborhoods
Although redesigning houses for a digital future is the focus of this initiative, should we also think in a broader community-wide perspective? How will these houses connect to their neighborhoods? Are the densities of our neighborhoods conducive to attract necessary services? Is sufficient ADA infrastructure in place? How about a wide variety of transportation modes to choose from? Do we need to change zoning codes to allow for better accessibility (e.g. ramps, larger porches, etc.)? And how do we accomplish this with funding levels the way they are?
76 months ago
1 answer
I would first address the issue of density in neighborhoods, in connection with the necessary amount of services. This issue is very evident especially when comparing Asian cities (high density) with Northern Europe for instance (much lower population density). Although in the cities and neighborhoods of Northern Europe there is a certain quality standard for the services provided, many times the Asian cities are much more lively and vibrant, with more small-scale services within walkable distances.
Furthermore, having a higher population density, the need for a wider variety of transportation modes also arises. And although in the Asian cities the transport and services are not that equitable in assuring a good accessibility to everyone, the locals are usually inventive and make their own comforts.
If we as urban planners could more attentively observe and get inspired from the way people live, we could provide more of what is actually needed, within a reasonable standard of quality. Then, if the funds are directed more towards what is needed rather than to what is imagined as being needed, the distribution of funding resources could be more efficient.
So I would say that allowing a certain degree of flexibility in the use and in the planning of housing areas, it would leave space for more innovation, resultant from an actual need.
76 months ago
