A couple of news stories:
Children's play restrictions spur suit
Single moms file bias complaint against condo manager
Lately I have been seeing more and more stories about people in multi-family condominium living arrangements having problems. Obviously living in the close quarters such as a condominium project, where there are limited private yards is going to lead to a conflict between those with children and those without. Unfortunately, it appears that these conflicts are leading to attempts to drive out children.
As planners this private conflict becomes also a public one. Many condominium projects come forward as means to either protect open areas on a site, or to make allowances for more affordable housing. Often, achieving these lofty goals, leave behind the idea of creating a user friendly environment.
As we review multi-family housing, as planners we need to remember that we are placing people in very close quarters. We need to remember that the big back yard of a traditional single family subdivision is lost, in exchange for common area. These common areas need to be designed to provide for areas where different residents can find solace, or active entertainment. A project with multiple bedroom units clearly needs to include areas specifically designated for children to play. These areas need to address areas for playing baseball or basketball or skateboarding. Things that often take place in lower density neighborhoods.
The designs should also look at more quite, contemplative areas. Areas for the older, empty-nest residents to enjoy away from the hustle and bustle of children play areas.
Passive open space, perhaps needs to be traded off to create these active areas in condominium projects.
As the two situations described above points out, we also may need to include conditions in site approvals that protect the rights of children to play.
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