The evolution of the townhouse and its role in creating sustainable communities

The townhouse has evolved over more than a 1000 years and is a highly valued living environment in Europe and throughout the western World. It is a sustainable building prototype and has effectively responded to environmental, social, cultural and economic forces in society. Townhouses have adapted to these ecological and dynamic changes in both rural and urban settlements, contributing to a sense of community while providing privacy for those fortunate enough to live within its walls. The townhouse is responsive to design with "nature"integrating both human nature and natural systems. The compact, common wall construction is inherently more economical, energy effi cient and can create an ideal density for walkable and transit-oriented communities.