This document provides an overview of traditional architecture and street design principles from historical examples and experts. It discusses the importance of balancing technological advances with human-scale design. A key lesson is that public policies can shape built environments to prioritize pedestrians, bicycles, and public transit over vehicles alone. International best practices in street design manuals show how to transform auto-oriented streets into complete, multimodal corridors that support community goals.
3. Timelessness: Lessons From History & Tradition
They are simple and sublime. More cannot be said. They are not the brat of a
whimsical conception never before brought to light, but copied from the most
precious, the most perfect model[s].
Thomas Jefferson, 1786, On traditional architecture.
Tradition is the tending of the fire,
not the worship of the ashes.
-Goethe
10. The record shows there is far
less danger of over-designing than
there is of failing to keep pace
with the technological advances
of the motor vehicle... 1
1
Mr. George T McCoy, Past President of AASHO
1955 speech at AASHO convention.
58. Key Design Principles
1. The best transport plan is a good land
use plan
2. Good street design starts with
pedestrians
• A well-designed street network provides
safety for all modes of transport
• Street connectivity enhances capacity
and allows smooth traffic flow
• Street design reflects Plan 2030 goals for
Abu Dhabi Emirate
• Street design supports estidama
principles