I agree with you with the aesthetic standpoint about the garages, but how funny, because I carry a differerent point of view. I actually prefer the standard front-loading garages – or simply parking on the driveway in the front. My rationale is that the more people “have” to see each other and interact, even if just a brief wave and “hello”, the more connected a community can be. Granted, the design of garages will not make or break a community by any means (if only it were that easy), so this is only one small piece of the puzzle for me. I have gone through stages though of intentionally parking on the driveway so that it would be easier and more natural to talk with neighbors and be outside. I have found this to be helpful for me. I must mention though too that I have also at times parked outside because the garage was just too full of stuff.

You mentioned something striking that resonated with me. I also am interested in “the way home design can facilitate and promote neighbor interaction”. I have done a fair amount of research regarding the porch, for example. The porch is an element of traditional neighborhood design that was used as a connection point for the community in years past, but it has been virtually abandoned in modern day construction. Most homes have a “courtesy slab” porch as I like to call it and it is definitely no longer used as a meeting place for residents. Whether lot sizes would become smaller or porches would be expanded, there is truly something very potent about how design and architecture can prod us to connect as residents.

I hope you continue to meet neighbors and that many others feel the same way about your neighborhood as you do.