While mixed-use developments are not a new concept, they have become widely popular in recent years as a viable solution to discerning urban challenges, like the quest for sustainable urban planning and the rising housing crisis in many parts of the world. As per Joe Cianciotto, mixed-use developments integrate residential, commercial, recreational, institutional, and green spaces into cohesive environments, thereby presenting a pragmatic approach for revitalizing cities and optimizing land use.
Joe Cianciotto sheds light on the sustainability benefits of mixed-use developments
Mixed-use developments traditionally used to encompass large-scale structures that had apartments, offices, and retail stores all under one roof. But urban planners and architects today are pioneering innovative designs that focus on the seamless integration of properties with the surrounding community. The new-age mixed-use projects break away from the conventional model, to an extent, and allow the creation of spaces that cater to the varied needs of residents and businesses seamlessly.
Mixed-use developments are generally classified into two types, vertical and horizontal. In horizontal mixed-use developments, one can find separate buildings within a single complex, each of them serving a distinctive purpose. These projects are ideal for areas with ample land. On the other hand, vertical mixed-use developments integrate multiple functions within a single building. For instance, they can have retail stores on the ground floor, offices above them, and residential units on the topmost floors. Such developments are well-suited to densely populated cities where land is limited.
Mixed-use developments promote sustainability in several ways, including by reducing the need to travel regularly by car. These developments place living spaces near workplaces, shops, and recreational amenities, so that the residents can walk, cycle, or simply use public transport for daily activities.
- Decreased Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT): Shorter distances translate directly to lower VMT, which essentially reduces greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles.
- Improved Air Quality: Lower reliance on cars means that fewer pollutants are released into the atmosphere, thereby improving the quality of air in the area.
- Healthier Lifestyles: By encouraging walking and cycling, mixed-used developments can promote improved physical activity and contribute to better public health outcomes.
Mixed-use developments tend to make quite efficient use of land. They combine varied types of land use vertically or horizontally, and can achieve higher densities than single-use developments. This leads to less urban sprawl.
- Preservation of Green Spaces: Concentrating developments in compact areas can go a long way in preserving natural habitats and agricultural land on the outskirts of cities.
- Reduced Infrastructure Costs: Higher densities mean that infrastructure like power lines, water pipes and roads can serve more businesses and people per unit length, which reduces overall costs.
- Revitalization of Existing Areas: Mixed-use projects can breathe new life into underutilized urban areas and transform them into vibrant, sustainable communities.
As per Joe Cianciotto, whether they involve a single building or are a part of a larger urban strategy, mixed-use developments generally offer a range of benefits that help them to enhance urban functionality and liveability. These projects integrate residential, commercial, and communal spaces, and facilitate the creation of vibrant communities that cater to varied needs while addressing critical urban challenges.
