A sustainable planning and management strategy that supports linked green space, a multi-modal transportation network, and mixed-use development should serve as the basis for urban growth. To build sustainable, living communities that safeguard historical, cultural, and natural resources, a variety of public and private partnerships should be utilised. Additionally, lawmakers, regulators, and developers have to encourage eco-friendly site design and building methods that lessen pollution and restore harmony between the built and natural environments.
A diversity of commercial, institutional, educational purposes as well as different dwelling designs, sizes, and price points should be offered in new sustainable urban projects or redevelopments. Within these mixed-use complexes, the inclusion of walkways, trails, private roadways, connected to transit stations and an integrated street network offers mobility alternatives and reduces pollution by lowering the number of car journeys. The urban mixed-use core and mixed-use neighbourhoods with easily accessible and clearly defined centres and edges should promote walking, biking, and other modes of transportation.
Here are some strategies that cities can adopt to breathe new life into these areas:
- Community engagement: Engaging the community from the early stages of the revitalization process is crucial. By involving residents, local organizations, and stakeholders, cities can ensure that the revitalization efforts align with the needs and aspirations of the community. Community input can help shape the design, programming, and long-term maintenance plans of the public spaces, ensuring that they are truly reflective of the community’s identity and interests.
- Multi-functional design: Revitalized public spaces should be designed to accommodate a variety of activities and functions. By incorporating flexible spaces, such as open plazas or multipurpose fields, cities can cater to the diverse needs of their residents. This allows for a range of recreational, cultural, and social activities to take place, making the spaces more inclusive and adaptable to changing community needs.
- Sustainable design: Integrating sustainable design principles into public space revitalization projects is essential for long-term success. Sustainable features, such as green roofs, rain gardens, or solar-powered lighting, not only contribute to the environmental well-being of the city but also serve as educational and aesthetic elements. By showcasing sustainable practices, cities can inspire residents and visitors to adopt more environmentally friendly behaviours in their own lives.
- Collaboration with local artists and designers: Involving local artists and designers in the process can add a unique and authentic touch to public spaces. Murals, sculptures, or interactive installations created by local talent can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the spaces and create a sense of pride among residents. Additionally, collaborations with local artists can provide opportunities for cultural expression and contribute to the artistic vibrancy of the city.
- Regular maintenance and programming: public spaces require ongoing maintenance and programming to ensure their long-term success. Cities should allocate resources for regular cleaning, landscaping, and repairs to keep the spaces well-maintained and inviting. Additionally, programming events, such as concerts, markets, or workshops, can help activate the spaces and attract visitors. Regular programming ensures that the spaces remain vibrant and relevant, further fostering connections and community engagement.
By adopting these strategies, cities can breathe new life into neglected public spaces, creating inclusive, sustainable, and vibrant environments that benefit the entire community.
- Here are some creative projects that have adopted a unique perspective.
Superblock of Sant Antoni / Leku Studio
The Eixample district in Barcelona is undergoing a transformation to address the challenges of climate change, pollution, and the lack of green and social spaces. The Superblocks Program aims to merge blocks into larger units, creating new public spaces and pedestrian-friendly streets. The plan requires a flexible approach, with temporary actions and adaptability being key components. This strategy is demonstrated by the Superblock of Sant Antoni, where flexible urbanisation permits the progressive development of the Superblock concept. A toolkit of adaptive urban furniture elements and a graphic style guide have been developed to guide the implementation of the plan. The graphic tile extends along the mesh, redistributing spaces on the road. The toolkit is designed to be easily aggregated and combinable, allowing for various combinations and the integration of urban green spaces. This strategy has led to the transformation of urban highways into healthy streets full of life and greenery, creating livable plazas in place of traffic intersections. The noise of cars has been replaced by the sounds of children playing and neighbours engaging in cheerful conversations or chess games. The flexible landscape continues to evolve through urban testing and social innovation.
Confluence Park: A Perfect Blend of Nature and Architecture by Lake|Flato Architects
Nestled in the heart of San Antonio, Confluence Park stands as a testament to the harmonious union of nature and architecture. Designed by the renowned Lake|Flato Architects, this picturesque park offers a captivating blend of serene landscapes and striking structural elements. As you step foot into this oasis, you are immediately greeted by the gentle sound of flowing water, inviting you to explore its tranquil surroundings. The park’s centre-piece is the confluence of the San Antonio River and San Pedro Creek, creating a mesmerizing intersection of two powerful natural forces. Lush greenery and native plantings adorn the park, providing a haven for local wildlife and a respite for visitors seeking solace in nature. But Confluence Park is more than just a sanctuary; it is a testament to sustainable design and eco-consciousness. From its solar panels that power the park’s facilities to its rainwater harvesting system, every aspect of this architectural marvel is meticulously designed to minimize its environmental impact. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a serene escape, Confluence Park is a must-visit destination that seamlessly blends the beauty of nature with the brilliance of architecture.
Azatlyk, Central Square of Naberezhnye Chelny / DROM
The architects have undertaken a renovation project in Naberezhnye Chelny, a Soviet city built around the Kamaz truck factory. The main public square in the city was originally designed with a central axis to connect the municipality building to the Lenin museum, but since the museum was never built, the axis lost its purpose. The square remained underused and disconnected from the city’s public life. To transform the square, the architects relocated the central axis to the edge of the square, near a row of trees. This not only removed its ideological significance but also provided visitors with protection from the elements and direct access to nearby neighbourhoods. Additionally, a series of pavilions were designed to enhance activity along the promenade. The goal of the renovation project was to create a dynamic public space that caters to different groups of people and fosters inclusivity.
Common Unity / Rozana Montiel | Estudio de Arquitectura
The San Pablo Xalpa Housing Unit in Azcapotzalco, Mexico underwent a rehabilitation project to transform it from a “sectored housing unit” into a “Common-Unity”. The project aimed to break down the walls and barriers that had been built by the inhabitants over time and create a free and open public space. The strategy was to work with the barriers by repurposing them for recreational and communal activities. Blackboards, climbing walls, handrails, and netting were among the different activities-equipped facades that were erected on modules. A multipurpose room was also built, which is now used as a library by children. This project successfully brought the community together to contribute to the redesign of their unit and changed their perception of the public space. The neighbours themselves requested the removal of fences, allowing the outdoor spaces to be filled with public and common life.
Reference:
Ravazzoli, E. (2022) Making PUBILC Space Sustainable! let’s start with a definition and some measurements, EURAC Research. Available at: https://www.eurac.edu/en/blogs/regionalstories/making-pubilc-space-sustainable-lets-start-with-a-definition-and-some-measurements (Accessed: 27 June 2023).
Waldheim, C. (2017) On landscape, ecology, and other modifiers to urbanism, Scenario Journal. Available at: https://scenariojournal.com/article/on-landscape-ecology-and-other-modifiers/ (Accessed: 27 June 2023).
The importance of green spaces in an increasingly gray world – sustainable earth (2023) Sustainable Earth – Where People and the Planet Thrive. Available at: https://sustainable-earth.org/green-spaces/ (Accessed: 27 June 2023).
