Influence of New Urbanist Design Features on Sense of Community: The Case of Cherry Hill Village in Canton, Michigan

Abstract

This study explored the influence of new urbanist design features on sense of community (SOC) in a new urbanist community in Michigan as a case study. Using a quantitative survey method, online surveys were utilized to procure data. A total of 136 surveys were collected and analyzed using multiple regression, one-way ANOVA and independent-sample t-test analyses. The variables investigated within this study were derived from the theoretical foundations and previous empirical studies of New Urbanism and SOC, include architectural and community design features, walkability, and socio-demographic variables. Utilizing Skjaeveland, Garling, and Maeland’s (1996) 14-item “Multidimensional Measure of Neighboring” to conceptualize SOC, the findings indicated that specific design features, as well as walkability and some socio-demographic characteristics, had a significant effect on SOC. In light of the increasing popularity of new urbanist developments, this study suggests the importance of physical design features in promoting SOC and gives guidelines for future residential and neighborhood design that enforce a SOC.