Defining The New Ruralism

New Urbanism promotes community through planning that mandates the interaction of neighbors designed to recapture the sense of community that was once the defining characteristic of American small town life. The small home sites and close proximity of homes stimulate a sense of community. In a New Ruralism setting, participation in community activities is more by choice with privacy options carefully preserved. Larger home sites, often separated by nature preserves or agricultural land, provide a buffer between neighbors. Here the front porch is a place to scan the vastness of your domain. The collection of multiple RiverCamps, farms or ranches provides an opportunity for community of like-minded neighbors, but only as desired.

From the white paper: The Rise of New Ruralism -- "As the pace of day-to-day life quickens, many people are seeking a different way to live, work and raise their families. They are seeking a retreat into a world of their choosing. In this world, serenity is found through a deep connection with the rhythms and wisdom of nature. In this world there is room to grow, quiet to think and time to dream. With a renewed connection, they become environmental stewards of the land. These people aredriven to live life on their terms, in concert with their own deeply held values. These aspirations are the driving force behind New Ruralism.

[Editor's note: The link below is to a white paper in a PDF format (1.2MB).]

Thanks to Kristen Richards