What are the key principles and criteria for designing mixed-use developments?

1 Benefits of mixed-use

Mixed-use developments can offer a variety of advantages in urban planning and design, such as reducing traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions by encouraging alternative forms of transportation, like biking and public transit. Additionally, these developments can enhance the quality of life and sense of community by providing a selection of amenities, services, and activities within a short distance. Furthermore, mixed-use developments can promote economic development and innovation by creating synergies between different sectors and businesses. Finally, they can preserve the urban character and identity by paying respect to the local context and culture.

3 Principles of mixed-use

To ensure the success of mixed-use developments, urban design and planning principles should be applied holistically and integratively to consider the site, context, vision, goals, and stakeholders of the project. Developments should have a clear identity and structure that defines its character, function, and image. Moreover, there should be a compatible mix of uses that responds to user needs and preferences. Additionally, a high-quality public realm should be provided to foster social interaction, accessibility, safety, and amenity for all users. Lastly, flexibility and adaptability should be incorporated to allow for changes over time and space.

4 Criteria for mixed-use

To apply these principles in practice, some specific criteria and indicators can be employed to evaluate and guide the design of mixed-use developments. These include density, which affects the intensity, diversity, and efficiency of the project; diversity, influencing the vitality, attractiveness, and resilience of the project; connectivity, affecting the accessibility, mobility, and integration of the project; legibility, determining the ease and clarity of understanding and navigating the project and its components; and sustainability, impacting the environmental, social, and economic performance and impact of the project.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?