Mixed Use Housing

I have to say that I'm a huge fan of mixed use housing.  I was thinking about it this weekend while walking through the British town in which I live.  All of the little shops and restaurants have a few windows above them with flowers overflowing in window boxes, cats peering down, and a few rooftop garden diners.

Living above a pizzeria doesn't have to make you cringe with the thought of loud nights and the constant smell of grease.  This way of living can be very healthy, connective, and even inspiring.  It's not just for college students either.  Think more along the lines of bringing all of the amenities to your family's doorstep.

As a long time admirer of the New Urbanism movement, where neighborhoods are very walkable, I am very drawn to this sustainable lifestyle.  It's very European and very urban as well.  Yet, it can be done nicely in small amounts to add character to smaller neighborhoods and towns.  It blends the many aspects that encompass a well-rounded community commercially and residentially.  The architecture can create a nice character and warmth around the usually more harsh commercial areas.  Plus, people are much more inclined to use the community as an extension of their households.

Just think how nice it would be if: you could walk to work, you could walk downstairs to buy milk if you ran out, your house looked different from everyone else's house, you could be part of restoring your communities charm and vibrance, or a stroll at night would be more interesting than a walk in a cul-de-sac.  Of course, this way of living isn't for everyone, but it's food for thought.