NEW URBANISM Meaning and
Definition
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New Urbanism is a planning and urban design movement that aims to create sustainable, walkable, and vibrant neighborhoods that promote community interaction, diversity, and physical activity. It is a response to the negative consequences of suburban sprawl and car-dependent cities, seeking to create a more balanced and human-scale environment.
At its core, New Urbanism prioritizes mixed land use, where different types of buildings and activities coexist within a compact area. These communities are typically designed to have a variety of housing options, including detached houses, townhouses, and apartments, accommodating people of different incomes and lifestyles. The emphasis is on creating self-sufficient communities that reduce the need for long commutes and increase affordability.
Central to the principles of New Urbanism is the creation of pedestrian-friendly streets and public spaces that encourage walking and cycling. Streets are designed with narrower lanes, reduced traffic speeds, and sidewalks that connect homes, shops, parks, and other amenities together. On-street parking and elements that support public transportation, such as bus stops and light rail stations, are also integrated into the neighborhood design.
New Urbanism also advocates for the preservation and revival of existing urban areas, encouraging the adaptive reuse of historic buildings and promoting infill development within city limits. By revitalizing older neighborhoods and promoting compact development, New Urbanism seeks to reduce urban sprawl and the need for extensive infrastructure expansion.
Overall, New Urbanism aims to create socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable communities by focusing on enhancing the quality of life, fostering a sense of belonging, and promoting a healthy lifestyle in urban areas.
Etymology of NEW URBANISM
The word "new urbanism" emerged in the 1980s as a term to describe a planning and development philosophy that sought to combat the sprawl and auto-dependency of modern American cities. The etymology of the term can be broken down as follows:
"New" - This word refers to the innovation and departure from traditional urban development practices that new urbanism aims to achieve. It emphasizes creating new approaches and strategies for urban planning.
"Urbanism" - This word encompasses the concept of urban living, design, and development. It originates from the Latin word "urbanus", meaning "of the city", and is associated with urban areas, their characteristics, and the overall study of cities.
Combining "new" with "urbanism" suggests a departure from conventional urban planning practices and the introduction of new ideas and ideologies regarding cities.
