Reimagining Public Spaces: Urban Design for People, Not Cars

Urban spaces have traditionally prioritised cars, shaping cities in ways that often overlooked the needs of pedestrians. However, city planning is now shifting towards a vision that places people at the centre of urban design. This approach aims to enhance quality of life, promote sustainability, and foster greater community interaction. The concept prioritises walking, cycling, and public transport over private car use, reducing traffic congestion and pollution while encouraging healthier lifestyles¹. By integrating green spaces, safe pedestrian paths, and accessible public transportation, this people-centric approach creates a more sustainable urban environment that benefits the entire community.

• Cities are redesigning public spaces to prioritise pedestrians and cyclists over private car usage.
• Transforming urban areas to be more people-centric can enhance community interaction and quality of life.
• Incorporating green spaces and sustainable transportation options contributes to a healthier, more liveable environment.
• Strategies like congestion charges and car-sharing schemes effectively reduce private vehicle flow in cities¹.
• Inclusive urban design ensures accessibility for all, including wheelchair users and the elderly.

Urban design is a multifaceted discipline that combines the practices of architecture, planning, and landscape architecture to create liveable, sustainable, and inclusive cities and communities². It is a crucial aspect of urban planning that goes beyond traditional urban environments, with urban design tools being successfully utilised in suburban and rural areas as well².

At its core, urban design is about how people perceive and use their surroundings, focusing on the look, feel, and livability of communities². It involves an explicit, public decision-making process that allows for meaningful public engagement and participation, ensuring that local conditions and broader regional impacts are taken into account². Urban design integrates various disciplines, such as transportation, land use, environmental protection, and housing, to address complex urban planning challenges².

Successful urban design projects prioritise the needs and experiences of people, creating spaces that are walkable, accessible, and conducive to community engagement and social interaction². Urban designers must understand human perception, cultural behaviours, economic factors, and functional activities related to the physical environment to develop effective solutions². By prioritising people over cars, urban design can transform cities into more enjoyable and sustainable environments for residents and visitors alike.

Urban designers can work on a variety of places, from residential neighbourhoods to industrial estates, train stations, and public spaces, focusing on designing for people at a human scale³. Engaging an urban designer early in the design or regeneration process can save time and money later, satisfying more stakeholders by addressing key design issues and ensuring community views are understood³.

Good urban design has been found to add economic value through factors such as high returns on investments, making places attractive, responding to occupier demand, reducing costs, contributing to productive workforces, supporting mixed-use developments, and raising the prestige of places³.

Urban design in local government involves urban design officers working collaboratively across departments to understand areas’ constraints and needs, involving stakeholders through events and using policy documents to support development management³. The 2020 Planning White Paper Planning for the Future indicates that urban design skills and expertise will be central in shaping new Local Plans with a greater emphasis on designing places strategically and utilising design codes to define what is acceptable in development³.

Public spaces play a vital role in building community connections and enhancing the quality of life in urban areas. These shared spaces, ranging from parks and plazas to pedestrian streets and community centres, provide opportunities for social interaction, cultural activities, and recreation⁴. By prioritising the creation and maintenance of well-designed public spaces, cities can foster a greater sense of community and belonging among their residents.

Public spaces serve as gathering places for diverse groups of people, facilitating social interaction and fostering a sense of community⁴. A 2002 survey by PPS (Project for Public Spaces) found that 60% of market shoppers visited nearby stores on the same day, with 60% of those saying they only visited those additional stores on market days⁴. Similarly, festivals and events held at public spaces, such as the hundreds of thousands attending events at the Place des Arts Esplanade in Montreal each year⁴, bring people together and create opportunities for shared experiences and community building.

Well-designed public spaces can also contribute to the overall quality of life for residents. The Vancouver Seawall, for instance, provides residents and visitors with a scenic route for walking, cycling, and jogging, improving their physical and mental health⁴. Similarly, Vondel Park in Amsterdam is known for its ability to facilitate physical activity, mental relaxation, and social engagement, enhancing the liveability and well-being of its users⁴. Moreover, well-maintained parks, plazas, and waterfronts can increase property values and attract investment, leading to higher rents and property values that contribute to the city’s economic health⁴.

By prioritising the Public Realm Improvement and implementing effective Placemaking Strategies, urban planners and policymakers can create vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable public spaces that enhance community connections and improve the overall quality of life for all residents.

“Public spaces are the heart and soul of our communities, where people come together to connect, engage, and thrive. By prioritising their design and maintenance, we can create vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable urban environments that enhance the quality of life for all.”

Sustainable mobility solutions in urban design prioritise the needs of pedestrians and cyclists, creating safe and accessible public spaces that encourage active transportation. By designing walkways and cycle-friendly infrastructure, cities can reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and foster more vibrant and connected communities⁶.

Designing safe and accessible walkways is a crucial aspect of people-centric urban planning. This involves measures such as widening sidewalks, improving bus routes, and implementing pedestrian boulevards⁶. These interventions prioritise the needs of pedestrians, making it easier and safer for people to navigate the city on foot.

Cycling offers numerous benefits, including improved health, reduced emissions, and increased social interaction.⁷ Cities like Seville and Copenhagen have embraced this approach, allocating a significant portion of their street space to cyclists and pedestrians⁷. This has resulted in increased public approval, with Seville achieving 90% approval for its cycling infrastructure⁷.

By contrast, cities like Barcelona and Copenhagen still allocate the majority of their road space to cars, despite low car usage rates⁷. This suggests that there is significant potential to repurpose existing infrastructure to better serve the needs of pedestrians and cyclists, ultimately creating more sustainable and livable urban environments.

“Cycling and walking can have significant health, environmental, and safety benefits for cities.”⁷

Sustainable mobility solutions that prioritise pedestrians and cyclists not only reduce traffic congestion and pollution but also promote healthier lifestyles and more vibrant street life. By designing safe and accessible walkways and implementing cycle-friendly infrastructure, cities can transform their public spaces into people-centric, sustainable hubs of activity and community.

As cities continue to grow and evolve, sustainable urban design has become a crucial focus for creating more liveable communities⁸. Sustainable urban development aims to ensure cities are liveable and supportive of economic, social, and ecological resilience⁸. Sustainable development combines strategies to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources, offering a path towards a greener and more efficient future⁸.

Integrating green spaces and promoting biodiversity are integral components of sustainable urban design⁸. Cities investing in sustainable practices can become greener and more efficient over time⁸, with green spaces providing recreational areas, improving air quality, and reducing the urban heat island effect⁹. The High Line in New York City is a prime example of how abandoned infrastructure can be transformed into vibrant green corridors, enhancing the city’s livability and environmental resilience.

⁸ Sustainable initiatives can reduce energy usage, waste, and pollution, while⁸ implementing practices that reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources can help reduce carbon dioxide emissions and global warming⁹. Smart grid systems and the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, are crucial for creating more sustainable and energy-efficient cities⁹. Additionally, energy-efficient building design principles aim to reduce energy consumption and improve overall efficiency, contributing to more liveable and environmentally-friendly urban areas.

These sustainable solutions in urban design contribute to creating more liveable communities that are better equipped to face environmental challenges, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for all citizens⁸.

“Sustainable urban development is crucial for economic work and improving the quality of life for all citizens.”⁸

As cities across the globe work towards creating more Urban Design for People and Walkable Cities, several success stories stand out as inspiring models. Two prime examples that showcase the transformative power of human-centric urban design are Copenhagen and Melbourne.

Copenhagen has long been celebrated as a leader in sustainable urban planning, with its extensive network of pedestrian zones and cycle lanes. The city’s commitment to reducing car dependency has significantly improved quality of life for its residents¹⁰. Superkilen Park, a vibrant public space in Copenhagen, involved the local community in every phase of its design, incorporating elements from over 50 countries to create a truly inclusive and diverse urban landscape.

Melbourne has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, prioritising pedestrian spaces and implementing innovative street designs. The city’s laneway revitalisation project has turned once-underutilised areas into thriving public spaces, attracting both locals and tourists¹¹. Barcelona’s superblocks program and Milan’s Piazze Aperte initiative have similar goals, demonstrating the global trend towards reclaiming city streets for people rather than cars.

These case studies showcase how Urban Design for People and Walkable Cities can successfully transform urban environments, fostering community connections and enhancing overall quality of life¹⁰. Successful examples like Bryant Park in New York City, Millennium Park in Chicago, and the High Line in New York City further illustrate the positive impact of human-centric urban design on economic and social revitalisation.

“Tactical urbanism has emerged as a grassroots solution to the shortcomings of traditional city planning, empowering communities to reclaim their public spaces.”¹¹

Engaging local communities in the Community Engagement Processes and Inclusive Urban Development is crucial for creating public spaces that truly meet the needs of residents. Participatory planning involves stakeholders in decision-making, ensuring that urban developments reflect local values and aspirations¹². This approach leads to more successful and widely accepted projects, as it builds a sense of ownership and community pride¹².

By involving residents in the design process, urban planners can capture invaluable insights and perspectives that shape spaces to be more functional, inclusive, and meaningful to the local community. This collaborative approach empowers citizens to take an active role in shaping their neighbourhoods, fostering a stronger sense of community and civic engagement¹²¹³.

The benefits of participatory planning in urban design are wide-ranging. It leads to better-designed spaces that cater to diverse needs, increased social cohesion, and more sustainable long-term outcomes¹²¹³. Inclusive urban development through community engagement helps create cities that are not only functional but also deeply meaningful to their inhabitants¹².

“Good urban design can increase the economic viability of development and deliver social and environmental benefits, contributing to a more competitive edge for products.”¹³

The research project commissioned by CABE and DETR found that good urban design provides economic benefits by generating high returns on investments, responding to occupier demand, and helping to deliver more lettable area¹³. Additionally, it contributes to social and environmental advantages, such as enhancing public support for development and increasing workforce productivity¹³.

Ultimately, the involvement of local communities in the Community Engagement Processes and Inclusive Urban Development is a crucial aspect of creating successful and meaningful public spaces that cater to the needs and aspirations of the people who live in them¹².

Implementing urban design for people faces significant challenges, particularly in addressing traffic congestion and overcoming resistance to change. Transforming car-centric infrastructure often requires redirecting traffic, which can lead to increased congestion in surrounding areas, as observed in Barcelona’s “superblocks” initiative¹⁴.

Another hurdle is overcoming resistance from those accustomed to car-dependent lifestyles. Some misconceptions, such as fears of being trapped in neighbourhoods or losing the “right to drive,” need to be addressed through education and clear communication about the benefits of human-centric urban design¹⁵.

Urban planners are increasingly focusing on sustainability, creating ecologically friendly cities that address climate change and resource depletion¹⁵. However, redirecting traffic to prioritise pedestrians and cyclists can lead to temporary increases in congestion, as seen in Barcelona¹⁴. Navigating this challenge requires a comprehensive approach, including public transport improvements, active mobility infrastructure, and innovative traffic management solutions.

Affordable housing in metropolitan regions is a growing concern, challenging urban designers to create inclusive and accessible cities¹⁵. Equity in urban design aims to reduce discrepancies in access to amenities and services, fostering inclusive and equal communities¹⁵. Addressing these issues and communicating the benefits of sustainable mobility solutions can help overcome resistance to change and garner support for transformative urban design projects.

“Transforming our cities to be more people-centric requires a delicate balance of addressing practical challenges and overcoming deeply ingrained mindsets. It’s a journey, but one that is essential for creating vibrant, livable communities.”

¹⁵

As cities around the world strive to become more sustainable and liveable, two notable trends are shaping the future of urban spaces: Technological Innovations and the Rise of 15-Minute Cities. These innovative approaches are poised to redefine the way we design and interact with our public spaces, offering solutions to the challenges of urban mobility and community well-being.

Technological advancements are playing a significant role in transforming the urban landscape. Smart city technologies, autonomous vehicles, and advanced public transportation systems are emerging as solutions to address the complexities of urban mobility¹⁶. Cities investing in a shift to mass transit and developing walking and cycling corridors can decrease carbon emissions by 5-15%¹⁶. Furthermore, data-driven technologies are enabling urban planners to gain a holistic understanding of cities, enhancing future urban development¹⁷. The implementation of these innovative solutions is paving the way for more efficient and sustainable transportation, ultimately contributing to the creation of Sustainable Mobility Solutions.

The concept of the 15-Minute City is gaining traction globally, promising to revolutionise the way we live in urban areas. This model aims to provide residents with access to essential services, such as healthcare, education, and entertainment, within a short walk or bike ride from their homes¹⁷. The focus on creating green infrastructure in urban spaces is gaining momentum, emphasising the importance of sustainable development and the creation of Liveable Communities¹⁷. By reducing car dependency and promoting local living, the 15-Minute City model has the potential to enhance community connections, improve air quality, and foster a more active and healthy lifestyle for urban dwellers.

Despite some resistance and misconceptions, the adoption of these trends represents a promising approach to shaping the future of urban spaces, addressing the pressing needs of Sustainable Mobility Solutions and Liveable Communities.

“The cities of the future will be designed for people, not cars. By prioritising pedestrians, cyclists, and public transportation, we can create vibrant, healthy, and environmentally-conscious urban spaces.”

–Jane Jacobs, Urban Theorist

By embracing these innovative trends, cities can pave the way for a future that prioritises Sustainable Mobility Solutions and the creation of Liveable Communities, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for urban residents¹⁶¹⁷.

The future of urban design lies in creating people-centred cities that prioritise human needs, sustainability, and community well-being over car-centric infrastructure¹⁸. This paradigm shift reflects the growing recognition that urban spaces should be designed for people, not vehicles. As cities continue to evolve, the path ahead for inclusive urban planning involves ongoing collaboration between city planners, local communities, and diverse stakeholders.

Achieving this vision for people-centred urban design requires a concerted effort to engage local communities in the design and planning process¹⁹. By incorporating the insights and aspirations of residents, urban planners can create more sustainable and resilient environments that cater to the everyday needs of the people¹⁹. This participatory approach, underpinned by disciplines such as urban planning, sociology, and geography¹⁸, holds the key to addressing the multifaceted challenges of urban development and fostering a sense of belonging within communities.

Ongoing dialogue and the development of innovative solutions are crucial for realising the full potential of people-centred urban design¹⁸. As cities grapple with issues ranging from traffic congestion to the commodification of urban spaces¹⁸, it is essential to foster a continuous exchange of ideas and collaborate on holistic, community-driven solutions¹⁹. By embracing sustainable practices, technological advancements, and the principles of Everyday Urbanism¹⁹, cities can become more livable, inclusive, and environmentally conscious, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for all residents.

1. Designing cities for people, not cars: pedestrian-friendly urban spaces – https://shotl.com/news/designing-cities-for-people-not-cars-pedestrian-friendly-urban-spaces
2. The Importance of Urban Design for Your Community – https://mrsc.org/stay-informed/mrsc-insight/march-2020/the-importance-of-urban-design-for-your-community
3. What is Urban Design? | Urban Design Group – https://www.udg.org.uk/about/what-is-urban-design
4. Beyond Concrete: The Social Role of Public Spaces in Urban Planning – https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/materials-construction/a12199-beyond-concrete-the-social-role-of-public-spaces-in-urban-planning/
5. The Role of Public Spaces in Urban Environments – https://injarch.com/public-spaces-in-urban-environments/
6. On city streets, prioritize people over cars | The Fourth Regional Plan – http://fourthplan.org/action/streets-for-people
7. How to Achieve a Walking and Cycling Transformation | CityChangers.org – https://citychangers.org/how-to-achieve-a-walking-and-cycling-transformation/
8. Urban development – a sustainable future – https://toposmagazine.com/sustainable-urban-development/
9. Building Sustainable Cities: Designing Urban Spaces for a Greener Tomorrow – https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/building-sustainable-cities-designing-urban-spaces-greener-bett-cyrus
10. 10 Case Studies For Community-Centered Public Parks – https://urbandesignlab.in/10-case-studies-for-community-centered-public-parks/?srsltid=AfmBOoopxo38naSK4lRGkoGfUzlr6Bg0dE6ozbhu-c22ubsERMVqqH68
11. What Is Tactical Urbanism? 4 Examples & Case Studies Explored – https://onekeyresources.milwaukeetool.com/en/tactical-urbanism
12. The Importance of Urban Planning – The Seven Key Reasons – Archistar – https://www.archistar.ai/blog/the-importance-of-urban-planning-the-seven-key-reasons/
13. The value of urban design – https://www.designcouncil.org.uk/fileadmin/uploads/dc/Documents/the-value-of-urban-design_0.pdf
14. Urban Design: Tackling the Challenges with a Creative Edge – Urban Design – https://nclurbandesign.org/urban-design-tackling-the-challenges-with-a-creative-edge/
15. The Future Of Urban Design: Trends And Challenges – https://urbandesignlab.in/the-future-of-urban-design-trends-and-challenges/?srsltid=AfmBOopyVPTr0fgq6oyNchNo6t__DAxxpSTbqn8OtjAt4AMXW45dnaGQ
16. Urban future with a purpose – https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/public-sector/future-of-cities.html
17. What are the trends shaping the future of urban planning? | AtkinsRéalis news and blogs – https://careers.atkinsrealis.com/blogs/2022-7/what-are-the-trends-shaping-the-future-of-urban-planning
18. PDF – https://www.bosch-stiftung.de/sites/default/files/publications/pdf/2020-04/Participatory Design of People-centered Cities_2020_0.pdf
19. Everyday Urbanism: Transforming Daily Life In Cities – https://urbandesignlab.in/everyday-urbanism/?srsltid=AfmBOoraZZGr-J4mb0Vh06LNC-jP1FI3zD7t52oavhNZ2PVOl5YfpXfC