Building Communities that Work: What Village Homes Can Teach Us Today

In 1975, a radical design experiment in community living began in Davis. The Village Homes neighborhood took root in a town shaped by the influence of the university, progressive local government, and a culture open to forward thinking. A big vision – and a bit of luck – helped turn that moment into a model for environmental sustainability and a strong community. As Village Homes marks 50 years, its relevance to today’s climate and social challenges are explored in a UC Davis Design Museum exhibition. The exhibition is the launching point for this half-day symposium that includes scholars and civic leaders reflecting on what Village Homes can teach us today about climate resilience, ecological infrastructure, and social cohesion.

9:30am - Exhibition preview "Village Homes: A Radical Plan"

10:00am–2:00pm - Reflections and conversations among civic leaders, scholars, and audience

Catered lunch and coffee provided

Who should attend?

• Community members, scholars, and students interested in building livable and sustainable communities

Why attend?

• Learn about the Davis neighborhood of Village Homes and its environmental and social innovations
• Engage in breakout sessions to discuss the application of this knowledge to addressing today’s environmental and social challenges
• Be inspired to engage in local stewardship and civic action

This event is co-sponsored by the Davis Humanities Insititute, the UC Davis Design Museum and Department of Design, and the UC Davis History Department.

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Host or Publisher UC Davis History Department