Shelby McMahon - 101297069

These suburban environments did not occur naturally; they were carefully constructed by governmental bodies, designers, planners and architects alike. What kinds of factors were at play when constructing suburban developments in postwar Canada? Such factors could include post-war baby boom, economic surplus, social desire and more. These processes included everything from housing design to community planning. Each aspect of suburban life was designed to regulate how we move, how we behave, and how we interact socially with others.

Not only do planners and architects design homes and buildings, but they also design the regulations and activities of social behaviour. Streets are typically designed for cars. Why else would we have such strong routines that involve driving everywhere? Home designs are based on how we are supposed to arrange our families and our possessions. The distances between each home are what seems ‘normal’ for a suburban neighbourhood. Public spaces and outlets are conveniently located for anyone to utilize them. Although we may think this is natural, it is actually constructed to make us act, think, and behave a certain way.

Designs have conscious and subconscious rules that make up our society. From the way we act to how we live day to day, architectural designs force us to behave and perform everyday activities within our homes and neighbourhoods. They allow or restrict us from carrying out certain tasks and expect us to follow societal rules when interacting with our friends, family, and co-workers. Homes and streets are a major factor in shaping our social performances.