Visualizing Density Investigating the density challenge facing the United States
A Bird's Eye View
6. Yards, Streets, Parks, and More
Specific design elements, or amenities, can mitigate the negative effects of density. Carefully placed and proportioned public spaces often compensate for the loss of large lots. Clearly defined and enclosed private yards can be more satisfying outdoor spaces than large, blank lawns. Diversity in architecture is key. Green infrastructure in the form of parks, greenways, or tree-lined streets offers the connection with the natural world we all crave. An interconnected street network that serves both vehicles and pedestrians can make neighborhood life more community oriented and convenient. These are the amenities that make people forget, or not notice, that a neighborhood is "high-density."
Garages, ells, and fences create privacy for back yards, Longmont, CO.
Urban residents can enjoy the outdoors with balconies and rooftop gardens, Cambridge, MA.
Clustering on small lots leaves room for larger swaths of public green space, Radburn, NJ.
Houses arranged along formal greens and tree-lined streets, Camden, NJ.