Traditional Neighborhood Development

Although coined by the real estate development community, the term “Traditional Neighborhood Development” (or TND) is quite simple.  This development philosophy was embraced as the norm in the country prior to World War II, and has since made a resurgence in growing markets around the United States.  Today’s TND focuses on authentic, period architecture, especially what was once common to the area, and not mass-produced/streamlined building. 

These developments offer diverse housing styles and prices that include features such as buildings that are closer to the street, front porches and window boxes.  Narrower streets are lined with a canopy of shade trees and boast a network of sidewalks that beckon people to leave their cars parked and instead, take a stroll.  Hike and bike trails traverse the community and open spaces, parks and a main public square serve as gathering points for residents.  There’s a balance of public and private space, with green or natural space given a high priority in the neighborhood’s overall design.

See these websites for more information on the concept of TNDs and New Urbanism:

http://www.newurbanism.org/

http://www.pbs.org/newshour/newurbanism/

http://www.notsobighouse.com/urbanism.asp