Density and the Good Things in Life

Introduction

Mobility, convenience, privacy, recreation. These are some of the good things in life and they can be found in all types of neighborhoods. Many of the amenities associated with low-density neighborhoods-private yards, greenery, and space to roam-can be created at medium density levels by using space efficiently and following specific design principles. At certain thresholds however, there are tradeoffs.

No matter what the density level, the number and quality of good things in a neighborhood are greatly affected by its design. Not all low-density neighborhoods are green and private just as there are some high-density places without useful services.

In this exercise you will get a sense of how good things are provided at various density levels. You will also see how different designs yield varying results. In the categories below, click the one option that is most appealing to you. Then click "submit" to see real places that fit your criteria. Try different combinations and you will see how altering the mode of travel, shopping, or recreation affects the density and form of residential spaces.

Please choose only one option from each of the categories below:

Getting Around

Private auto (no transit available) Limited transit (a bus line runs near the site with buses arriving every hour or half hour.) Small town with a mixed-use commercial center within 1/2 mile Convenient transit (a subway, rail, light rail, bus route or routes within 1/4 mile with frequent service- 20 minutes or less)

Shopping

Drive to a shopping center Walk to street-level shops

Recreation

Drive to recreation facilities and open space Convenient transit to recreation facilities or park Neighborhood facility such as pool, tennis courts, or nearby park

Outdoor Space

Large private yard Small private space such as a patio, deck or balcony Shared green space