By Princess Ventura | 30 Jan 2017

Our population is growing, our cities are changing, we are living more densely. The places we work, shop, relax and play are becoming one and the same. As a result, the property paradigm is shifting.

At Urbis, we’re at the forefront of these changes. Our specialists are helping to create mixed-use environments for people everywhere to enjoy; whatever age, culture, social income or household type.

We have pulled together our cumulative experience — from economists, researchers, urban planners, designers, social planners and more — to provide you with ten key insights to create a successful, vibrant mixed-use development.

1. Have local relevance

Every development needs to respond to community, values and requirements. This involves engaging with diverse community perspectives in the places and spaces in which they work, shop or recreate.

2. Get the mix right

The retail mix needs to be just right at any mixed use development. Understanding the demographics is the trick though, not every centre will play the same role or have the same offer.

Mixed-use developments need to be inclusive, creating a place for everyone to enjoy.

3. Cater for everyone

Mixed-use developments need to be inclusive, creating a place for everyone to enjoy.  A diversity of uses increases the relevance of a place to more members of the community and encourages visitation across a range of times.

4. Stay up late

The cultural and creative life of a city is enhanced by safe, inclusive and vibrant night time economies. Night time economies can be created at all scales, enhancing mixed use centres through to city-level precincts.

5. Find common ground

The needs of owners, retailers, workers, tenants and residents can be diverse. But all these interests need to be accommodated and aligned to ensure a cohesive, successful mixed use development.

6. Establish a clear vision

It’s essential to have one clear, strategic vision for a mixed-use development and there needs to be clarify on its role and function for the community.

7. Be accessible

The success of a centre hinges on how accessible it is from other parts of a city or region. Easy access by all modes of transport will increase convenience, leverage integrated uses, and maximise catchment

Mixed-use developments need to embrace the shifting environment in the world around us

8. Build on innate strengths

Developments need to leverage their existing strengths for maximum results. You simply can’t build a competitive advantage from scratch.

9. Embrace the outdoors

A connection with the outdoors is a game changer. Outdoor piazzas or pedestrian streets provide an opportunity to create an authentic sense of place that responds to a site and its history. 

10. Design for change

Mixed-use developments need to embrace the shifting environment in the world around us and focus on the future. Expansion and flexibility need to be built into plans from the outset.

Urbis’ complete guide to successful mixed-use development in an urban regeneration environment is available now. 

To receive your copy or express an interest in attending events on this topic, please submit your details below. 

Revitalising the urban environment – event and guide




 

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