Urban planners and developers are relearning the old lessons. They're calling it Traditional Neighborhood Design, or Neo-Traditionalism. It celebrates local history, climate, ecology and architectural integrity. Inspired by walkable towns from the past, it endeavors to make the street safe and interesting, by having storefronts and homes face onto the street.

We began planning for San Elijo Hills by researching some of the most revered communities in Southern California – places like old Pasadena, San Marino, Mission Hills and Kensington. We looked at what sustained their livability and popularity over the decades. It became apparent that walkable town centers, outdoor gathering spaces, varied architecture, close-to-home schools and distinctive parks all contributed to each community's unique sense of place. These elements of Neo-Traditional Design have been applied to the San Elijo Hills community.