So what to do? Start mandating that we only build high-rises?
And the market dictates what stores/architectural types/etc survive and thrive in America. If folks don't buy the houses, then developers won't build those houses. If people don't shop at WalMart, then WalMart closes its doors.
FWIW, I agree with you about the houses. I absolutely loathe these new subdivisions where every single house looks like every single other house. These folks are in for a rude awakening re: resale value when they try to move. My wife and I live in the newest house we've ever lived in, and it was built in 1952.
The main argument that I hear in favor of these tract homes is the maintenance argument. I disagree. You spend the first five years fighting to get the builder to fix defects related to shoddy construction, after which you begin an artificially accelerated maintenance schedule caused by the same shoddy materials and workmanship.
So - for the most part, I agree with you. But what can you do when the consumer drives the growth?
In my travels to Canada, I have observed that that is what they are doing - at least near Toronto. You see lots of 15-10 story high rises even though there may be open land near by.
I visited coworkers and I can't say these complexes impressed me as the happiest place to live.