By: Jean Bauza Jeisson Manchego

Is a method of urban planning used in subdivision characterized by non-uniform lot shapes and home placement. Coving is used as an alternative to conventional "grid" subdivision layout in order to reduce costs and increasing the amount of land available for construction.

Coving was pioneered by Minneapolis-based urban designer Rick Harrison The name comes from coves of green spaces among the homes which are made possible by winding roads and staggered setbacks.

Reduces construction costs by reducing roadway The reduction in road surface adds usable land for lots and Parks Increased pedestrian safety due to less road and fewer intersections Greater set-back from the street, larger lots, Reduced usability for mixed application Decreased walkability Decreased street and pedestrian connectivity of a tract to its surroundings Increased suburban sprawl Leaving little or no public open space Advantages Disadvantages

Designing coved developments is considered comparatively difficult. Specialized software is often used and designers often need several years of experience to become proficient.