Community sense

As cities become larger and more impersonal, living in smaller communities becomes very attractive. One advantage of such a neighbourhood is that, with its own shops, schools and parks, residents can get to know each other more easily.

Addison is a new residential development in South Auckland that has been specifically designed to facilitate this, and more. Development manager of McConnell International Property, Dan Ogle, says research by his company has shown that homeowners are looking to live in areas where there's a greater sense of community.

"Our aim was to develop a neighbourhood where houses, local shops and green areas are all integrated and interconnected by pathways, both with each other and with the wider community," he says.

Addison has been planned so that the homes are grouped around landscaped common areas.

"We see this as a way to encourage local children to play together, and to help other residents interact. Properties are unfenced at the front to keep the streetscape open and help develop a sense of security and community, while back gardens are more private," Ogle says.

To enhance the open nature of the environment and ensure all homes have pleasant outlooks, lanes between streets and parks are unfenced, and streets are planted with shady trees to create avenues.

While the style of the homes varies throughout the development, colour schemes and distinctive architectural features are repeated, reinforcing the sense of connectivity.

Addison is adjacent to an existing sportsground, and paths between houses and parks in the development ensure residents have good access to it. The area is also well-placed for local primary and secondary schools, all in walking distance.

Contact McConnell International Property, phone (0800) Addison (0800 233 4766), or your local real estate agent. Email: enquiries@addison.co.nz. Website: www.addison.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas