The source for New Urbanism, smart growth, and walkable communities

Architecture and
New Urbanism


Many new urbanists advocate traditional architecture.

Some of them abhor modernism. A smaller

number prefer Modern. After listening to arguments

from all sides, we’ve concluded that either traditional

or Modern styling can work well — when certain

standards or conditions are met. The standards revolve

around one main requirement: that the buildings

foster a good relationship between the public and

the private realms. (From New Urbanism: Best Practices Guide)

A house that makes a point
In the nation’s capital, Jeff Speck’s new home reconciles Modern architecture and L’Enfant’s street pattern.

Variety within structure
The most-loved places around the world vary enormously. At first glance, there seems to be no common thread, because it is the uniqueness of each of these places that makes them notable. Further observation, however, yields at least one common thread: each of them exhibits great variety within a very narrow range.

The benefits of a town architect
The position can serve many vital roles: as seed planter, place maker, project coordinator, course corrector, and technical facilitator.

Towering Achievement
Vancouver's soaring "point towers" show New Urbanism's potential to incorporate modernist design concepts in the creation of esthetically pleasing and pedestrian-friendly streetscapes.

Tradition-minded architects
A newly combined organization of classical and traditional designers is reaching out to building designers and homebuilders — and battling excess.

It's the context, stupid
The New Urbanism has always raised the hair on the necks of many academics and opinion makers in the field of architecture.

Jeff Speck’s Washington, DC, townhouse brings both flair and good urban form to a challenging site.

New Urbanism: Best Practices Guide includes in-depth chapters on architecture and urban design.

What makes the Place Des Vosges great?

Photo by Sid Tabak

Architectural Styles and Buildings Types

For a free download a 30-page chapter from New Urbanism: Best Practices Guide, a book by Robert Steuteville and Philip Langdon (pdf, 2.21 mb) click HERE