Planning and Design

To create a rich living environment it is necessary to initiate a process that unfolds not only the physical layout or geometry of a community, but which also creates a sense of place where human activity acts as a defining factor.  A "place" takes on character as a result of the activities that occur within its boundaries. 

A "community" literally becomes place where people, the environment and the natural resources generated become a functioning system that can maintain itself.

• It is a "place", a piece of land that has certain infrastructure and resources available to it by virtue of its location.
• It is a place that encourages satisfying interactions between people, the animals and the land that adds character to the land.
• It is a cultural mosaic that includes tradesmen, farmers, clerks and executives.  It is a place that is rich in local culture and history.
• It is a distinct place of its own with its own identity that represents a particular way of life.

We are inspired in a part by the work of Christopher Alexander.  He is an award-winning architect who wrote the Pattern Language.  You can find further information here.

The Practical Stuff

Physical Infrastructure

These links consider the physical side of the community and the infrastructure that is needed.

Land Use | Water System | Waste | Transportation | Energy | Communications

Other Considerations

Community | Buildings | Education | Local Resources | Cultural | Wildlife | Landscape | Common Spaces | Agriculture