Sometimes, meticulous planning seems overrated. If you’re sending an instrument package into deep space, then, yes, plan to the utmost degree. But when it comes to housing developments and neighborhood revitalization, our urge to control every detail can result in a bland soup instead of a memorable feast.

Recent visits to Boone and Grinnell reminded us what it’s like to drive through neighborhoods where individuality was a given. You’re driving along a side street and you spot a unique home that has nothing to do with its neighbors, stylistically.

You notice it, because it’s different. And you remember that neighborhood.

Or, stroll through Des Moines’ East Village and then read the results of the recent Downtown Neighborhood Association survey. You’ll find testimonials to the power of happenstance.

In the East Village, the larger residential projects were pushed and pulled through the world of regulation, it’s true, and they’re sure to play important roles in the neighborhood.

But it remains to be seen whether they’ll pass the long-term charm test. The smaller shops and restaurants sprang up almost unnoticed, and so far seem to be the more important part of the area’s revival.

Which brings us to Court Avenue. Big-concept proposals have struggled, but modest efforts nearby, such as the Royal Mile and the Hessen Haus, have come to life and seem to be doing well.

Downtown residents have noticed. Suggestions written in response to the survey included:

“Bite-sized projects, not large grandiose ones which are too complicated and expensive to complete.”

“Ease and safety of walking, smaller businesses or specialty shops rather than megasites.”

“Please allow private developers to develop as needs arise. While city, state, federal tax incentives are nice, most of us have built our own businesses without them, supporting ourselves and providing a service … for the public. Put emphasis on making it easier for those who want to do the same.”

No, you can’t just open the floodgates. But let’s always look for ways to encourage the collective genius of independent dreamers.