I'll generalize my ideal neighborhood building design:

1) Size- generally scaled to increase density in the area, yet not substantially larger than the neighbors. For most areas of the city, this should be three to five stories.
2) Contemporary design- Cincinnati has so many fantastic old buildings that any new development needs to be done as if it's being built now. Replicating historic detailing is just lying unless it's done with historic craftsmanship. A building should represent the era it is constructed in.
3) Environmentally responsible- No reason that every new building shouldn't respond better to the environment regarding material selection, energy use, and indoor quality.
4) Appropriate setbacks- A commercial building should be next to the sidewalk. Residential can/should have a yard for privacy. No new development should be pushed to the back of a parking lot.
5) Should not be 'cookie-cutter' designed. Architects have too much creativity to be designing blocks of buildings that all look the same.

I may elaborate later once we get some discussions going. I'm interested in what others have to say!