We hear a lot today about the need to incorporate greenspace in a new development project. Most cities and municipalities have hired environmental engineers and arborists, and keep them on staff to ensure that natural areas with aesthetic beauty and multi-use functionality are available.
But the concept is not new. For centuries, towns have incorporated "village greens" in the center of commerce to provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of busy merchants and service providers. The green afforded more visibility for the storefronts and signage, while allowing customers to leisurely congregate in the center of town.
The village green could also serve as a place for informal meetings, exercise, relaxation and meditation. It was an excellent venue for political rallies or a summer band concert.
And today, the allocation of greenspace is more important than ever. Even shopping centers and office complexes are allowing for more landscaping in ever increasing in scope green areas. And the space that is allocated is not wasted or lost. People are more attracted to areas that appeal to their sensibilities, and tend to stay longer, perform better, and enjoy an increase in serenity and a lower stress level.
That means that more greenspace can actually mean more business! It's a win-win scenario in which we all benefit from a little foresight and a lot of greenery!
Photo: Village Green, Downtown Monticello Georgia
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All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Coweta Fayette Real Estate, Inc., and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Coweta Fayette Real Estate Better Homes and Gardens Metro Brokers, Newnan Georgia. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2003-2009. Richard Weisser REOS, E-Pro. licensed Auctioneer. 770-827-6225.
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Richard,
Don't hear a lot of talk about this anymore. Good post. Town/village greens are very important for the reasons you mention.
Steve
I love to utilize the green spaces. We need them!
The old is new once again Richard. Green spaces are so important for many reasons.....sometimes I don't believe there's enough of them.
Richard, I am glad that green spaces are getting more emphasis again. You are so right, they really to bring a lot more value to community than more houses or other buildings would!
I wish they'd start using the term 'village green' again....sounds much better then 'designated parkland'...:-)
I love the Green space between my self and my neighbors...all 1/4 mile of it!
Richard, just goes to show there's little new in the world. I grew up in Morris County, NJ, with Morristown as the County seat. There's a lot of history there, and yes, the most beautiful park (about the size of a city block) right in the middle of downtown, still called the Green!
I find these greenspaces a nice place to visit when having a bad day. So relaxing.
Richard - I enjoy traveling through some of those old quiet towns where a green sqaure sits in the center, especially if trees shade that parking surrounding the square I will often stop and visit some of the old shops and perhaps get a bit to eat or a soft drink in the old diner.
I like the new "green" coming back into urban and suburban design, but, it isn't quite the same feel as the mature green spaces.
No developer can get permits in my area for any community, subdivision plans without incorporating common areas. Residents like the green areas in close proximity to their homes.
Of course, they don't want the HOA fees needed to maintain those areas.
Can't have everything.
Steve...
It's just that a lot of people believe that this is a recent concept, when if fact, it's ancient! Thanks.
Mel...
Most communities are mandating more of them, but I am saying that this is GREAT for developers too, because they stand to benefit!
Mandi...
We are seeing more being incorporated in our area! Thanks.
T&D...
When you increase the quality of life you increase property values. Can it be that simple?
Liz...
It does sound better, doesn't it?
It depends on where you go in Columbia as to how many green areas there are. There are none in the center of down town, but there are a few large parks on the edges of down town.
These greenspaces are a great place to relax!
Richard- Where I live it is green everywhere! While in Europe I grew fond of the central squares...while they aren't very green I like the fountains and statues and people enjoy gathering there as well to relax.
Bill...
Why, you old curmudgeon you! lol
Laura...
And it really IS the center of town isn't it?
Don...
I think they are even more relaxing when they are an "oasis" in the middle of the concrete jungle!
Mike...
You can tell when a green has been there "forever!" It is neat, isn't it?
Lenn...
Someone MUST cat the grass, mustn't they? Thanks.