Crowded Or Comfortable?

A high density mix of apartments, townhouses, and detached homes has advantages for residents trying to shorten commutes, but does it feel cozy or just cramped?

1 minute read

March 4, 2004, 9:00 AM PST

By Janet Boyko

Densely packed multifamily high-rise rental apartments, townhouses and detached houses average 18 units per acre in Rivermark, a new planned community in Silicon Valley near Santa Clara, California. The development trades privacy for shorter commutes in an area where a three hour commute is not unusual. Space between houses is extremely tight. Townhouse fronts are separated by 30-foot wide landscape walkways. Detached homes have side yards about eight feet wide and back yards 15 feet deep. But what is it like to live in this high density environment? According to Washington Post reporter Katherine Salant, Its density could quickly make a person feel hemmed in on all sides, but walking around the community I found it uncommonly pleasant.

Thanks to Janet Boyko

Read the full story: Pretty, Pricey and Oh So Crowded in California

Sunday, February 29, 2004 in The Washington Post

Housing United States

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban and Environmental Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban and Environmental Planner

Get top-rated, practical training for planners

Start Learning

Advertise with us

FREE Course: Walkable City 1: Why Walkability?

After describing his path towards focusing on walkability as the essence of good planning, Jeff Speck marches through his five principal reasons for making more walkable places.