How - and Where - Should We Live?

A new report predicts how - and where - we'll be living in the near future, and where planners and developers should focus.

1 minute read

November 19, 2011, 9:00 AM PST

By Charles R. Wolfe @crwolfelaw


Writing in The Atlantic Cities, Chuck Wolfe analyzes one of the latest on-the-ground summaries of urban trends, a new report from the Urban Land Institute: "What's Next, Real Estate in the New Economy".

The report focuses on the relationships of demographic, financial, technological and environmental trends over the next decade. It explains how these trends are dramatically impacting urban planning, design and development practices, so much that "[t]he real estate world is hurtling into a different place and time."

The report's purposeful topic titles and subject areas outline how key aspects of "living, working and connecting" will change in major ways in North America, Asia and Europe, primarily shaped by the values, preferences and work ethic of Generation Y.

Wolfe concludes:

"'What's Next' is easily accessible and readable in one sitting, and projects the virtue of practicality, gleaned from a cross-section of ULI's ... members. For a glimpse into the realities faced by the report's intended audience, the report is well worth both review and reflection."

Thanks to Chuck Wolfe

Friday, November 18, 2011 in The Atlantic Cities

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

July 2, 2025 - Mother Jones

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Screenshot of shade map of Buffalo, New York with legend.

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

0 seconds ago - 2TheAdvocate.com

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

18 minutes ago - Mother Jones

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog