Designing a Residential Area

💭 Think About...

1. What are some different types of housing you've seen in real life? How are they similar or different?
2. What do you think are the most important features of a house? Why?
3. Besides houses, what other buildings or spaces does a residential area need?
4. How can the design of a residential area affect how people live and interact?
5. If you could live in any type of house, what would it be? What features would it have?

🔨 Your Project

  1. With your group, discuss what type of residential area you want to create. Will it be urban apartments, a suburban neighborhood, or a rural village?
  2. Use the Residential Area Design Planner to sketch out your ideas. Decide on at least 3 different housing types (e.g., single-family house, townhouse, apartment) and 2 community spaces (e.g., park, library).
  3. Label each building and space in your sketch. Discuss how they will meet the needs of different residents.
  4. In Minecraft, find a flat area to build. Refer to your sketch as you build.
  5. Start with one house. Experiment with different materials and designs. Make sure to include interior furnishings!
  6. Copy and paste the house to create multiple variations. Arrange them based on your plan.
  7. Build your community spaces. Add features like benches, fountains, trees, etc.
  8. As you build, discuss with your group how well your design matches your original plan. Make changes if needed.
  9. When finished, take turns exploring each other's residential areas. Discuss what you like about them.
  10. Individually, complete the Reflection Sheet. Consider what you learned and what you would do differently next time.