Ashoka's Community Greens, in collaboration with Clare Cooper Marcus, professor emeritus of UC Berkeley, designed these principles for Backyard Commons:

1. The community green should be bounded by the dwellings it serves.
   
2. Entry points should reflect that it is a private space.
   
   
3. There should be a private space and a buffer.
   
   
4. Privacy should be layered if possible -buffer space is needed between the private and public space.
   
   
5. Intended uses should be considered. What kind of experience do you want to have upon entering the green. Do you want to have fun and play? Then areas should be developed that encourage wide use of the space.
   
   
6. Native plantings, organically maintaine.

Learn more about Backyard Commons Design Criteria through the following powerpoint presentation: