You’ve heard pop sociologists talk about “cocooning” —

You’ve heard pop sociologists talk about “cocooning” — the tendency of families to retreat from the outside world. The marketing consulting group Yankelovich says cocooning is being challenged by a newer trend: “hiving.” “A hive is a home designed to open out and facilitate connection,” said Yankelovich President J. Walter Smith. Homes that function as hives are often on smaller lots, encouraging use of community centers and parks, according to Smith. In a March 14 article in The Denver Post, Jeff Kingsbury, vice president of sales and marketing for McStain Neighborhoods, described the quest for community as a strong trend, especially evident in urban infill situations. “People,” he said, “are really looking for mixed-use, walkable neighborhoods.”