Increasing energy costs, a preference for urban living and a desire for more accessibility to public services, retail and entertainment options has resulted in more community design based on the principles of higher density and mixed-use development.

That’s according to The American Institute of Architects’ third-quarter Home Design Trends Survey, released in December.

The survey is conducted quarterly with a panel of 500 architecture firms that concentrate on the residential sector.

The survey also found that homeowners are interested in neighborhoods that have dedicated areas for recreation and open space.

Traditional neighborhood design featuring homes closer to the street, front porches for more neighborhood interaction, and smaller lots also are gaining popularity.

“Encouraging clustered retail development with a multitude of services around public transportation and dense residential units has been part of an overall strategy by architects and public officials to foster more vital and healthy communities,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker in a news release. “Consumer demand has caught up to this approach and we are now seeing more interest in developments that include a mix of shopping, entertainment and recreation options.”

Katherine Austin, chairwoman of the AIA housing committee, added that the advantages of mixed-use development do more than make life more convenient for homeowners.

“They also help create more vibrant and active communities that reflect the preferences of changing demographics,” she said in the release. “There are added environmentally friendly elements associated with such design, neighborhoods become more walkable and allow for less reliance on the automobile for short shopping trips.”

Residential design

The slowing housing market has led to a continued slowdown of business conditions at residential architecture firms, with an even greater easing of inquiries for new work, suggesting further reduction in residential design activity in the coming months.

Homeowners are, however, still investing in their current homes, as kitchen and bath remodeling projects as well as additions and alterations are reported by residential architects as very strong.

The survey also examined homeowner trends in upscale features for home exteriors. Among the most popular trends are durable exterior materials, accent lighting, more and larger windows, porches and high-end entry doors.