How do you change the city? You can start by changing its design. And it’s not just about architecture and infrastructure but also social justice and equity.
Many men who live in urban environments are struggling to find a place where they can be themselves. The city is changing, and there’s no room for them anymore. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Urban design has the power to change the spaces we inhabit so that all people feel welcome and respected.
How does urban design impact people’s lives?
Urban design has the power to change a city. It can transform neighborhoods, create economic growth, and improve the quality of life for all who live there. The best urban designers are creative problem solvers that tap into their knowledge of history, architecture, ecology, sociology, and more to make cities healthier places to live in. They see possibilities where others see only limitations. That’s why it is so important for architects to consider both the tangible environment they are designing and the intangible qualities that will make people feel at home when they walk out their door every morning. We’re exploring how architects can use creativity and innovation to rethink what future generations want from our streetscapes to build sustainable communities on a human scale.
Why should we care about urban design?
Urban design is a powerful tool for shaping the city. It can bring vibrancy and beauty to cities, but it has also been used to create ghettos or destroy neighborhoods. So what does an urban designer do? How do they work with communities?
Urban design is not just about architecture and landscape but also includes urban planning. Urban planners are the architects of cities. They create a city’s spatial layout, define its building codes, set up zoning laws, or provide guidelines for development. How does this affect your life? Think about the last time you walked to work in an unfamiliar area- how did you know where to go? That’s because what you saw around you was designed by an urban planner with consideration for pedestrians and other modes of transportation like cars and buses. All those buildings that line the street were placed there deliberately – to promote a certain type of business or residential neighborhood. The sidewalks themselves were created to keep pedestrians safe from traffic while providing them ample space for walking.
