Rural by Design
- stephrouse21
- Jan 8, 2022
- 2 min read
In a world often focused on the planning challenges of sprawling cities and urban centers, we took a step back to the countryside. Stephanie and Jennifer sat down with author Randall Arendt to discuss a vital topic that applies far beyond the farmstead.
Arendt, the mind behind the influential book Rural by Design, makes a powerful case that thoughtful planning is not just for metropolitan areas. The episode's discussion revealed that the principles of good design are universal and crucial for creating thriving communities of all shapes and sizes. The title might evoke images of pastoral landscapes, but the book and the podcast episode's core message is clear: whether a bustling suburb or a quiet village, every community benefits from intentional design.
Throughout the conversation, the hosts and Arendt explored several key aspects of this philosophy, including:
Conservation Subdivisions: A groundbreaking concept that rethinks residential development. Instead of carving up land into uniform lots, this approach clusters homes on a smaller portion of the property, leaving the majority of the land as shared, protected open space. It’s a win-win for both residents and the environment.
Affordable Housing: They delved into the complex issue of creating housing that is accessible and integrated into communities. The discussion highlighted how smart design can be a powerful tool in addressing the affordable housing crisis.
Density: The episode tackled the often-controversial topic of density, demonstrating that it's not a one-size-fits-all problem. Arendt explains how density can be managed and designed in a way that preserves community character while meeting housing needs.
Ultimately, the episode serves as an important reminder that the places we call home are shaped by the decisions we make. As Arendt's work shows, designing a better future requires us to think creatively and intentionally about our surroundings, one community at a time. If you’re interested in a fresh perspective on what makes a place work, this episode is a must-listen.
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