In the 21st century, the way that we live is becoming more fluid, with less segmentation between our family lives, work lives and social activities. It’s important that the environments in which people live are adapted to reflect these changes – which is why mixed-use developments are on the rise. In this blog we look at how these types of living spaces are adapted for modern life and the benefits they can bring.
Easier to travel without a car
One major benefit to mixed-use developments is having all the amenities a person needs available to them in close proximity. This includes day-to-day requirements such as shops and entertainment much closer to where they live and them either being much closer to their place of work, or at least within only a short distance of a public transport option e.g. train station or bus stop. All of these factors work together to encourage more people to walk or ride a bike in their daily lives rather than drive a car, increasing the activity of residents and reducing carbon emissions.
Creates a sense of community
Having people live and work together in shared spaces can foster a sense of community. The way that the infrastructure is designed for mixed-use developments, from parks to squares – even the way the roads and pavements are set out – creates shared spaces for social interaction amongst groups of people. In the age of the internet where more and more of our communication takes place online, a mixed-use development environment provides more opportunities for people to come together and experience frequent real-life contact.
Healthier and happier residents
Yes, mixed-use developments really can help to keep people happier and healthier. As we have touched on already, increased physical activity – as a result of less driving or attending a conveniently located gym – can help people to stay healthy. Being in close proximity to healthcare facilities such as clinics and hospitals also increases the general health of people living in a mixed-use development. Similarly, regular social interactions created by the infrastructure can reduce loneliness and make people feel happier.
Boosts local economies
Companies or corporations with offices in mixed-use developments can be a huge boost to the local economy. Not only do they provide jobs for residents but their workers also spend money on facilities in the area. This effect escalates further when obstacles like cars are removed from the picture, as discovered in a Transport for London study, which found pedestrians spend up to 60 percent more money at businesses each month than those travelling by car.
Regent Land & Developments is a specialist developer of brownfield sites for residential and mixed-use land-led schemes across London and the South East.
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