In determining trends in planned communities, architects and land developers are going "back to the future" to create neo-traditionalist homes and traditional neighborhood developments that appeal to today's buyers.

Typically these neighborhoods meet many of the desires today's consumers express by returning to a traditional neighborhood design with a well-defined town centre and a high-density, mixed-use balance of shops, offices, schools and recreational facilities.

Public spaces and civic buildings are given priority and so are parks, which tend to be centrally located instead of on the periphery. Sidewalks are a must, and pedestrian traffic is encouraged.  Above all, the automobile, which has been given primacy since the end of World War II, is de-emphasized in the planning process and in home design, with pedestrian access to all central points, alleyways and parking spaces are behind houses, out of view from the street.

Canadians will, of course, never get rid of their automobiles. But people still want a friendly neighborhood atmosphere, a place where design matters and they can safely walk down a tree-lined sidewalk when they want to. The frantic pace of modern life makes people appreciate old-fashioned tranquility.

Another factor that may increase the sense of community in a neighborhood is a trend toward mixed pricing. Many architects today say that they are looking to integrate income groups, age groups and ethnic groups in a neighborhood by designing houses that appeal to a broad public spectrum. 

A family that buys a starter home in a development that also includes higher-priced homes can later move up, but their children will be able to stay in the same schools and their parents can still enjoy the same neighbors and friends while utilizing familiar neighborhood businesses and services. Kind of like the way things used to be.