Blog
New Urbanism: Why The ‘Burbs Are Losing
For much of the previous century, American cities were perceived as dangerous and unsustainable, and a steady flight ensued to the safety and cookie-cutter shopping plazas of suburban areas. In the last few years, this movement has drastically reversed itself, as businesses and individuals are moving back into cities!
A recent article in The Harvard Business Review suggests that people of all ages are eagerly returning to city life in an effort to reduce car use and save money on commutes. According to HBR, “almost two-thirds (64%) of college-educated 25- to 34-year-olds said they looked for a job after they chose the city where they wanted to live.” The influx of this younger demographic has had significant impact on urban planning and business marketing strategies, as they must adapt and accommodate the growing demand for local/”neighborhood” consumption habits.
For example, The Piazza at Schmidts, a new mixed-use complex of loft apartments, boutique shops, bars, and open-air event space in the Northern Liberties neighborhood of Philadelphia, has transformed the community landscape and introduced new cultural assets for younger residents.
Photo from designphiladelphia
—————-
Read more about the suburban exodus & New Urbanism at HBR.ORG…
Written by intern on 05/12/2010 in Architecture | Blog | Editorial | News | Philadelphia | Politics | Theory/Criticism
|
Share this post: |
|
