Getting Back to a Simpler Way of Living

New Urbanism or Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) is a concept dating back to the early 1980s, and whose influence arose from neighborhood and urban designs that were prominent until the mid-20th century, when the automobile became a way of life.

After 50 years of living in places that are far from work, entertainment and modern conveniences, there has been an increased demand for places that have it all… places where residents can live quite comfortably without an automobile… old-fashioned neighborhoods where most of our daily activities are located within walking distance and are connected by tree- and lamp-lined streets and public spaces.

We are seeing a growing trend in the home building industry that is moving developers towards these TNDs, or new urbanism-type neighborhoods, where a sense of community and old-world charm are high on Homebuyers’ list of desirable attributes. TND communities typically feature narrower streets and sidewalks that encourage people to get to know their neighbors, with front porches, corner stores, and plenty of trees to give the neighborhood a sense of establishment. There is also usually a “town center” or some sort of large green space that marks the middle of the neighborhood.

Homes in TNDs range from detached single family homes to townhomes and even row houses. Garages are often built in the rear of the home, accessed via alley way, to keep the streets pedestrian-friendly and traffic moving slower. The design of the home typically mimics the overall look and feel of the neighborhood and surrounding community – whether it’s urban-chic or filled with old-world charm!

Neighborhoods like these have survived and prospered over the centuries. New urbanism, or TND, returns to these time-tested principles and adapts them for a healthy, sustainable 21st century!

Visit one of David Weekley Homes’ TND communities to learn more:

Austin - Mueller
Denver - Stapleton
Houston - Telfair
Orlando - Laureate Park at Lake Nona