The center of the Fairfax Corner located in Fairfax, Virginia offers various entertainment. From interactive fountain to seasonal concerts, various entertainments are included within the limited space located in the center of Fairfax Corner. Not fully a New Urbanism community but definitely a possible one, Fairfax Corner composes of a movie theater, various boutiques, restaurants, office spaces and condominiums. Fairfax Corner based its atmosphere on the basic idea of the New Urbanism including its idea of “live, work, dine, and shop.” Also the multiple, short streets that resemble the “Main Street” is similar to the idea of the New Urbanism as well as the buildings being close to the streets. However, the presence of the parking lots, and the fact that the community is based more on the outside visitors than the actual residents living in Fairfax Corner condominiums suggest that the area is not a New Urbanism community. The idea that the community is focused on the public can be found in the center area as well. A meeting place and a waiting area for the theater and restaurants, the center of Fairfax Corner provides a sense of public meeting place where people come together as one and enjoy their social lives in a miniature urban town. However, similar to the mall, the seemingly open, public place is in fact a private entity which prohibits individuals with its own rules.
Although I agree that Fairfax Corner has a lot of private space (i.e. all the restaurants and shops located in the square) I have seen many public events at this location. Also contradictory to most "private spaces", Fairfax Corner has a really relaxed atmosphere where people can sit in the benches and have discussion or families can bring their children to play at the water fountain. Also this area is located near many different town home communities which allows the people living there to walk to either Fairfax Corner or Fair Oaks mall nearby.
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