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Exploring
a sustainable development future for the
Niagara Region
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Fundamental
Design Principle
Primary
Principle -
The overall development must address equally the
principles of community, stewardship, aesthetics, and well being, all of
which are interdependent and none of which may take priority over the
others.
Community
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Community
based development as the starting point for project.
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A
positive community environment must be a specific goal.
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While
not necessarily an intentional community, the emphasis should be on
encouraging interdependency, mutual support, and a joint democratic
management of the community and its property.
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The
project should consider serving the needs of a mix of ages in the
belief that single aged housing cuts generations off from the
possibility of service to each other.
Stewardship
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Where
possible, the density should provide the maximum allowable in a
apartment or townhouse design with considerable open green space
available for gardens.
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Infill
developments should attempt to reuse existing buildings where
possible.
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Design
should encourage the reduction of fossil fuel consumption through
solar gain, material selection, conservation measures, and parking
restrictions. Building materials should have minimal impact on
natural resources, be recycled or recyclable, and be as local as
possible.
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If
possible, total “outflow” of waste water and garbage should be
limited by design, education, policy, and handled as possible on site.
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Landscaping
should be low impact using local plantings, chemical free maintenance,
and as much as possible be edible (either by humans or wildlife).
Well Being
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The
buildings should be barrier free and adaptable to the needs of those
with physical disabilities. Further the building program should
promote the ability to age in place.
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Recreational
facilities, both indoors and outdoors, as well as space for hobbies or
crafts should be available and appropriate to all residents.
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Space
should be available for “wellness” programs, again appropriate for
all residents.
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The
facilitation of spiritual reflection should be integrated in the
entire development.
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Overall
well-being may be promoted through meaningful activity which
encourages the continuation of personal independence and
self-direction.
Aesthetics
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Design
should be functional as qualified by the requirements of stewardship,
community, and well being.
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Design
should encourage the idea of stewardship, that the present occupants
are caretakers rather than absolute owners.
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Design
should allow for an atmosphere of stability, permanence, and enduring
beauty.
- Design should encourage the growth of community
toward interdependency.
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