#public-spaces

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#infrastructure

I-35 caps plan reconsidered as cost estimates soar by 61% - Austin Monitor

The I-35 cap project in Austin faces significant cost increases, from $868 million to $1.4 billion, raising concerns about funding and feasibility.

Transforming Urban Spaces: Reintegrating Infrastructure Through Thoughtful Design

Large-scale infrastructure can disrupt local communities but can also be re-integrated through thoughtful design.

Transforming Portland: How a Demolished Highway Became a Pioneering Waterfront Park

Portland's Harbor Drive exemplifies the shift in urban planning from car-centric infrastructure to prioritizing public space for people.

Bass overhauls how L.A. handles street repairs. But there's still a miles-long backlog.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass' new directive aims to streamline infrastructure improvements ahead of major events.
A multi-year investment plan will coordinate repairs across various city departments.

Deutsche Bank Headquarters / WilkinsonEyre

The project revitalizes the Moorgate area with integrated public spaces and modern amenities, enhancing connectivity and urban regeneration.

Super sewer: Thames Water customers will pay 25 annual levy for another two decades to fund 4.5bn project

Thames Water customers will pay a long-term levy to fund the super sewer project to reduce sewage in the Thames.

I-35 caps plan reconsidered as cost estimates soar by 61% - Austin Monitor

The I-35 cap project in Austin faces significant cost increases, from $868 million to $1.4 billion, raising concerns about funding and feasibility.

Transforming Urban Spaces: Reintegrating Infrastructure Through Thoughtful Design

Large-scale infrastructure can disrupt local communities but can also be re-integrated through thoughtful design.

Transforming Portland: How a Demolished Highway Became a Pioneering Waterfront Park

Portland's Harbor Drive exemplifies the shift in urban planning from car-centric infrastructure to prioritizing public space for people.

Bass overhauls how L.A. handles street repairs. But there's still a miles-long backlog.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass' new directive aims to streamline infrastructure improvements ahead of major events.
A multi-year investment plan will coordinate repairs across various city departments.

Deutsche Bank Headquarters / WilkinsonEyre

The project revitalizes the Moorgate area with integrated public spaces and modern amenities, enhancing connectivity and urban regeneration.

Super sewer: Thames Water customers will pay 25 annual levy for another two decades to fund 4.5bn project

Thames Water customers will pay a long-term levy to fund the super sewer project to reduce sewage in the Thames.
moreinfrastructure
#urban-planning

See renderings of the new proposed public spaces below the BQE

The NYC DOT proposes converting BQE areas into public spaces to benefit community access and quality of life.

Friday Video: Welcome to the 'War on Cars' - Streetsblog USA

The podcast 'The War on Cars' critiques car dominance in urban planning and advocates for more sustainable living options.

vibrant circular hubs emerge from playful park landscape conceived by alberto menozzi

Pointillisme reinterprets social distancing circles into vibrant communal spaces, promoting interaction and creativity in urban design.

How to Make Central Park Safer for Pedestrians

The Central Park Conservancy recommends removing traffic lights to enhance park user experience and safety.

Designing Shared Rural Environments: Defining Public Spaces beyond Urban Metrics

Rural environments are poorly defined and lack crucial public spaces, impacting community health and quality of life.

AON Building / LKSA

The building design balances solid mass with openness to create interactions with the park while maintaining a strong presence on the road.

See renderings of the new proposed public spaces below the BQE

The NYC DOT proposes converting BQE areas into public spaces to benefit community access and quality of life.

Friday Video: Welcome to the 'War on Cars' - Streetsblog USA

The podcast 'The War on Cars' critiques car dominance in urban planning and advocates for more sustainable living options.

vibrant circular hubs emerge from playful park landscape conceived by alberto menozzi

Pointillisme reinterprets social distancing circles into vibrant communal spaces, promoting interaction and creativity in urban design.

How to Make Central Park Safer for Pedestrians

The Central Park Conservancy recommends removing traffic lights to enhance park user experience and safety.

Designing Shared Rural Environments: Defining Public Spaces beyond Urban Metrics

Rural environments are poorly defined and lack crucial public spaces, impacting community health and quality of life.

AON Building / LKSA

The building design balances solid mass with openness to create interactions with the park while maintaining a strong presence on the road.
moreurban-planning

Women Are Sharing The Tips And Tricks They Use To Stay Safe While Dating

Prioritize safety in dating by using anonymous communication methods and choosing low-key public locations for initial meetings.

New York City's underground tunnel becomes public therapy couch

The NYC tunnel project encourages emotional expression through post-it notes, fostering community connection and personal reflection.
Matthew Chavez's initiative provides a therapeutic outlet for city commuters. It emphasizes authentic expression, free from political influences.
#parenting

A New Initiative Hopes to Make Restaurants More Welcoming for Breastfeeding Parents

Restaurants should strive to become more accommodating to breastfeeding parents and children.

Someone Asked For "Adult Only" Pumpkin Patch Recommendations And The Internet Had A Field Day

Adult desire for kid-free spaces at traditionally family-centered events reveals a disconnect in parenting dynamics and societal expectations.

A New Initiative Hopes to Make Restaurants More Welcoming for Breastfeeding Parents

Restaurants should strive to become more accommodating to breastfeeding parents and children.

Someone Asked For "Adult Only" Pumpkin Patch Recommendations And The Internet Had A Field Day

Adult desire for kid-free spaces at traditionally family-centered events reveals a disconnect in parenting dynamics and societal expectations.
moreparenting
#architectural-design

Lingang Youth Activity Center / Arcplus Institute of Shanghai Architectural Design & Research

The Lingang Children's Palace encourages exploration and engagement for teenagers through innovative architectural design, moving beyond conventional educational spaces.

picnic table and bench intersect i/thee's eroded rammed earth walls in iowa park

The Dining Room is an innovative public pavilion utilizing rammed earth construction, designed to reflect its natural surroundings and foster community engagement.

Lingang Youth Activity Center / Arcplus Institute of Shanghai Architectural Design & Research

The Lingang Children's Palace encourages exploration and engagement for teenagers through innovative architectural design, moving beyond conventional educational spaces.

picnic table and bench intersect i/thee's eroded rammed earth walls in iowa park

The Dining Room is an innovative public pavilion utilizing rammed earth construction, designed to reflect its natural surroundings and foster community engagement.
morearchitectural-design
#san-francisco

Prop K Has Passed, Whether Sunset District Residents Like It or Not

San Francisco voters passed Prop K to make the Great Highway car-free, reflecting a desire for more public oceanfront spaces.

Flower Piano's whimsical charm brings music and nature together in SF

Flower Piano transforms the San Francisco Botanical Garden into a musical haven, promoting creativity and community through spontaneous performances.

Party for the Parks mixes wind, wine, and good company at China Basin

The annual gala raised $630,000 for San Francisco's parks, showcasing the community's strong support for green spaces.

Prop K Has Passed, Whether Sunset District Residents Like It or Not

San Francisco voters passed Prop K to make the Great Highway car-free, reflecting a desire for more public oceanfront spaces.

Flower Piano's whimsical charm brings music and nature together in SF

Flower Piano transforms the San Francisco Botanical Garden into a musical haven, promoting creativity and community through spontaneous performances.

Party for the Parks mixes wind, wine, and good company at China Basin

The annual gala raised $630,000 for San Francisco's parks, showcasing the community's strong support for green spaces.
moresan-francisco

Unhoused man's nativity scene in San Jose swept up by Caltrans crews

An unhoused father transformed a neglected area into a holiday display only to have it removed by Caltrans, leaving them with nothing.
#urban-development

Park Avenue Will Be Redesigned To Be Safer With More Green Space

New York City plans to transform Park Avenue with greenery, public seating, and safer crossings for improved pedestrian experience and urban revitalization.

NYC's waterfront is transforming into luxury leisure space, one park and condo tower at a time

Domino Square symbolizes the shift from industrial to mixed-use community spaces in Brooklyn, enhancing public access and recreational areas by the waterfront.

See the new waterfront public plaza now open in Williamsburg

Domino Square is transforming the Williamsburg waterfront with a public park featuring dynamic seasonal uses like ice skating and theater-like events.

A Skyward Shift: Exploring the Social Impact of Elevated Public Spaces in Cities

Elevating public spaces alters social interactions and community engagement, contradicting modernist principles promoting accessible ground-level environments.

An Urban Living Machine for the Common Good: Municipal Services Buildings in Hong Kong

Urban skyscrapers can create isolated ecosystems that serve elite leisure needs, contrasting with public models designed for broader community engagement.

Five London boroughs are getting multi-million pound regeneration projects

London plans major investment in public spaces to enhance inclusivity and connectivity across the city.

Park Avenue Will Be Redesigned To Be Safer With More Green Space

New York City plans to transform Park Avenue with greenery, public seating, and safer crossings for improved pedestrian experience and urban revitalization.

NYC's waterfront is transforming into luxury leisure space, one park and condo tower at a time

Domino Square symbolizes the shift from industrial to mixed-use community spaces in Brooklyn, enhancing public access and recreational areas by the waterfront.

See the new waterfront public plaza now open in Williamsburg

Domino Square is transforming the Williamsburg waterfront with a public park featuring dynamic seasonal uses like ice skating and theater-like events.

A Skyward Shift: Exploring the Social Impact of Elevated Public Spaces in Cities

Elevating public spaces alters social interactions and community engagement, contradicting modernist principles promoting accessible ground-level environments.

An Urban Living Machine for the Common Good: Municipal Services Buildings in Hong Kong

Urban skyscrapers can create isolated ecosystems that serve elite leisure needs, contrasting with public models designed for broader community engagement.

Five London boroughs are getting multi-million pound regeneration projects

London plans major investment in public spaces to enhance inclusivity and connectivity across the city.
moreurban-development
#community-engagement

MVRDV Unveils Masterplan for Redevelopment of Faneuil Gardens Public Housing in Boston, United States

The Faneuil Gardens redevelopment project focuses on creating a connected and inclusive community through modern housing and enhanced public spaces.

New York City's Piers, Once Abandoned, Are Now Full of Life

New York's waterfront piers have transformed from industrial hubs into vibrant public spaces, reflecting the city's economic and social evolution.

The City of London's new tallest skyscraper has had a major redesign - retaining a much-loved neighbourhood square

The latest proposal for One Undershaft emphasizes community input, preserving green spaces, and includes multiple public amenities.

Urban Revitalization Through Motion: 9 Public Swings That Invite Play

Playful urban interventions, especially swings, reclaim public spaces and encourage social interaction, enhancing emotional connections to the city.

"Architecture is a Work of Generosity:" In Dialogue with Colectivo C733, Winners of Obel Award 2024

Colectivo C733's projects demonstrate the transformative impact of collaborative design on public spaces in Mexico.

soft yellow exhibition hall by selgascano to bring playful architecture to beijing

The Xicheng District Urban Exhibition Hall embodies a fusion of playful design and functional spaces aimed at enhancing public interaction in Beijing.

MVRDV Unveils Masterplan for Redevelopment of Faneuil Gardens Public Housing in Boston, United States

The Faneuil Gardens redevelopment project focuses on creating a connected and inclusive community through modern housing and enhanced public spaces.

New York City's Piers, Once Abandoned, Are Now Full of Life

New York's waterfront piers have transformed from industrial hubs into vibrant public spaces, reflecting the city's economic and social evolution.

The City of London's new tallest skyscraper has had a major redesign - retaining a much-loved neighbourhood square

The latest proposal for One Undershaft emphasizes community input, preserving green spaces, and includes multiple public amenities.

Urban Revitalization Through Motion: 9 Public Swings That Invite Play

Playful urban interventions, especially swings, reclaim public spaces and encourage social interaction, enhancing emotional connections to the city.

"Architecture is a Work of Generosity:" In Dialogue with Colectivo C733, Winners of Obel Award 2024

Colectivo C733's projects demonstrate the transformative impact of collaborative design on public spaces in Mexico.

soft yellow exhibition hall by selgascano to bring playful architecture to beijing

The Xicheng District Urban Exhibition Hall embodies a fusion of playful design and functional spaces aimed at enhancing public interaction in Beijing.
morecommunity-engagement

olafur eliasson's lifeworld displays blurry cities on digital billboards in new york, seoul & more

Olafur Eliasson's Lifeworld utilizes urban digital art to encourage self-reflection on identity and the role of cities in shaping individual experience.
#new-york-city

Meet Me at Riis - 99% Invisible

The demolition of Neponsit Hospital prompts reflection on the future and significance of Riis Beach as a queer liberation site.

A Proposed Park Avenue Redesign Attempts To Transform Midtown East

Mayor Eric Adams plans a redesign of Park Avenue to reintroduce green spaces and enhance pedestrian accessibility.
The redesign aims to revitalize East Midtown and create a more sustainable and pleasant environment.

Victoria Tentler-Krylov's "New Heights"

Vibrant experiences in New York are often found in the outer boroughs, revealing hidden cultural gems.

Man gets tattooed on ping pong table inches away from playground in NYC park: 'A little unsanitary'

Public tattooing in NYC raises sanitation and legality concerns.
Tattooing in unusual public spaces is not uncommon in New York.
Local authorities require licenses and sanitation training for tattoo artists.

Meet Me at Riis - 99% Invisible

The demolition of Neponsit Hospital prompts reflection on the future and significance of Riis Beach as a queer liberation site.

A Proposed Park Avenue Redesign Attempts To Transform Midtown East

Mayor Eric Adams plans a redesign of Park Avenue to reintroduce green spaces and enhance pedestrian accessibility.
The redesign aims to revitalize East Midtown and create a more sustainable and pleasant environment.

Victoria Tentler-Krylov's "New Heights"

Vibrant experiences in New York are often found in the outer boroughs, revealing hidden cultural gems.

Man gets tattooed on ping pong table inches away from playground in NYC park: 'A little unsanitary'

Public tattooing in NYC raises sanitation and legality concerns.
Tattooing in unusual public spaces is not uncommon in New York.
Local authorities require licenses and sanitation training for tattoo artists.
morenew-york-city
#local-government

Trump 2024' Was Projected on a Town's Water Tower. A Standoff Ensued.

Hanson, Mass. grapples with a controversial political message projected onto a water tower, leading to fines and community division. The town is taking measures to prevent further displays.

Wetherspoon accused of 'ignoring community views' over historic pub closure

The George pub in Wanstead will close, despite community efforts to save it, highlighting tensions between local interests and business decisions.

Friday's Headlines: Hotoween Edition - Streetsblog New York City

Adams administration's decision to limit outdoor dining in warmer months negatively impacts community vibrancy and public spaces.

Trump 2024' Was Projected on a Town's Water Tower. A Standoff Ensued.

Hanson, Mass. grapples with a controversial political message projected onto a water tower, leading to fines and community division. The town is taking measures to prevent further displays.

Wetherspoon accused of 'ignoring community views' over historic pub closure

The George pub in Wanstead will close, despite community efforts to save it, highlighting tensions between local interests and business decisions.

Friday's Headlines: Hotoween Edition - Streetsblog New York City

Adams administration's decision to limit outdoor dining in warmer months negatively impacts community vibrancy and public spaces.
morelocal-government
#community-development

Two Trees announces opening of Domino Square

Domino Square, a one-acre plaza, enhances the community by providing a versatile public space for diverse activities and events.
The opening of Domino Square complements Domino Park, extending the footprint of community engagement in South Williamsburg.

Dumping ground next to popular pub transformed into a pleasant oasis

Community efforts transformed Dumpton Place from an eyesore to a vibrant area with improved infrastructure and greenery.

'Museum of Garden Escapes' unveiled on site of historic pub

The new Rainham Riverside community garden and seating area enhance local outdoor space and reflect community collaboration.

Former Wetherspoon pub could be transformed into community centre

Former Wetherspoon pub in Forest Gate may become a community centre promoting inclusivity, education, and resources for local residents if plans are approved.

Two Trees announces opening of Domino Square

Domino Square, a one-acre plaza, enhances the community by providing a versatile public space for diverse activities and events.
The opening of Domino Square complements Domino Park, extending the footprint of community engagement in South Williamsburg.

Dumping ground next to popular pub transformed into a pleasant oasis

Community efforts transformed Dumpton Place from an eyesore to a vibrant area with improved infrastructure and greenery.

'Museum of Garden Escapes' unveiled on site of historic pub

The new Rainham Riverside community garden and seating area enhance local outdoor space and reflect community collaboration.

Former Wetherspoon pub could be transformed into community centre

Former Wetherspoon pub in Forest Gate may become a community centre promoting inclusivity, education, and resources for local residents if plans are approved.
morecommunity-development
from Slate Magazine
1 month ago

I Saw the Future of the City in Los Angeles. Now, the City Has to Make a Choice.

Autonomous electric vehicles offer promise for urban improvement but face logistical hurdles, while community-focused events show alternative urban futures.
The future of cities could embrace both autonomous technology and vibrant public engagement, though balancing the two poses challenges.
#urban-design

See renderings of a more pedestrian-friendly Fifth Avenue

Fifth Avenue's redesign aims to transform it into a pedestrian-centric area by expanding sidewalks and reducing traffic lanes.

like a veil, perforated aluminum panels wrap noyard commercial complex in china

NOYARD project revitalizes Haikou by transforming a building into a vibrant commercial complex with a focus on openness and vegetation.

From Historical Squares to Quaint Booths in the Forbidden City, Explore 8 Captivating Public Space Concepts from the ArchDaily Community

Innovative public space designs foster community interaction and enhance cultural identity.
Architectural experimentation challenges norms and reimagines urban landscapes.

WilkinsonEyre Reveals Plans to Revitalize a Constructivist Landmark in Belgrade, Serbia

WilkinsonEyre proposes a respectful and minimalistic redesign of the Belgrade Fair Hall 1, integrating mixed-use spaces and enhancing environmental connectivity.

Pavilions in Urban Spaces: On the Experimentation, Recycling, and Reuse of Materials

Pavilions serve as experimental spaces in architecture, often fostering inclusivity and engagement within urban environments.

Deaconry Bethanien / E2A

The building's design integrates multiple health and support services, reflecting thoughtful coordination for community engagement and functionality.

See renderings of a more pedestrian-friendly Fifth Avenue

Fifth Avenue's redesign aims to transform it into a pedestrian-centric area by expanding sidewalks and reducing traffic lanes.

like a veil, perforated aluminum panels wrap noyard commercial complex in china

NOYARD project revitalizes Haikou by transforming a building into a vibrant commercial complex with a focus on openness and vegetation.

From Historical Squares to Quaint Booths in the Forbidden City, Explore 8 Captivating Public Space Concepts from the ArchDaily Community

Innovative public space designs foster community interaction and enhance cultural identity.
Architectural experimentation challenges norms and reimagines urban landscapes.

WilkinsonEyre Reveals Plans to Revitalize a Constructivist Landmark in Belgrade, Serbia

WilkinsonEyre proposes a respectful and minimalistic redesign of the Belgrade Fair Hall 1, integrating mixed-use spaces and enhancing environmental connectivity.

Pavilions in Urban Spaces: On the Experimentation, Recycling, and Reuse of Materials

Pavilions serve as experimental spaces in architecture, often fostering inclusivity and engagement within urban environments.

Deaconry Bethanien / E2A

The building's design integrates multiple health and support services, reflecting thoughtful coordination for community engagement and functionality.
moreurban-design
#architecture

Opinion | Why We Don't Build Beautifully

Modern architecture's beauty decline signals a loss of humanist confidence and faith.
Economic factors significantly influence shifts in architectural aesthetics.

xing design's sculptural energy center sits in park in china like a mechanical cloud

The Cloud Engine Energy Center integrates essential energy infrastructure into a public park while enhancing its ecological landscape.

Gimme shelter how social housing in stormy Shetland was transformed by a modernist fleeing 60s London

Architecture should prioritize livable spaces and community needs rather than focusing solely on iconic designs.

Portlands Place East Village / Hawkins\Brown

Portlands Place enhances community living through its design, promoting social interactions among residents in a vibrant, sustainable environment.

Crystal Palace Subway restoration progress revealed

The Crystal Palace Subway is set to reopen in time for its 160th anniversary due to ongoing restoration efforts.

Forest Pools Zimmeregg / Brechbuehler Walser Architekten

The forest pools in Lucerne underwent a renovation to preserve their character and reduce operating costs.
New structures and open spaces were added to enhance visitor experience and accessibility.

Opinion | Why We Don't Build Beautifully

Modern architecture's beauty decline signals a loss of humanist confidence and faith.
Economic factors significantly influence shifts in architectural aesthetics.

xing design's sculptural energy center sits in park in china like a mechanical cloud

The Cloud Engine Energy Center integrates essential energy infrastructure into a public park while enhancing its ecological landscape.

Gimme shelter how social housing in stormy Shetland was transformed by a modernist fleeing 60s London

Architecture should prioritize livable spaces and community needs rather than focusing solely on iconic designs.

Portlands Place East Village / Hawkins\Brown

Portlands Place enhances community living through its design, promoting social interactions among residents in a vibrant, sustainable environment.

Crystal Palace Subway restoration progress revealed

The Crystal Palace Subway is set to reopen in time for its 160th anniversary due to ongoing restoration efforts.

Forest Pools Zimmeregg / Brechbuehler Walser Architekten

The forest pools in Lucerne underwent a renovation to preserve their character and reduce operating costs.
New structures and open spaces were added to enhance visitor experience and accessibility.
morearchitecture

Sunnyvale celebrates new era of downtown developments

Sunnyvale's downtown revitalization features historic redwoods and modern developments, marking the completion of a long-term urban planning project.

Going to CicLAvia this weekend? 10 spots to eat or drink along the route

CicLAvia encourages healthy transportation alternatives by closing streets to cars, allowing community exploration and celebration.

geometric facade wraps stadium by WTA design studio, reflecting traditional ilocano fabric

The Ferdinand E. Marcos Stadium emphasizes community access and Ilocano cultural elements in its design, promoting inclusivity and public engagement.

Juxtapoz Magazine - Lilian Martinez's "Women & Dogs"

Lilian Martinez's exhibition celebrates 'boundless femininity', focusing on women's joyous interactions in public spaces.

Ten Things the Bay Area Can Learn from Spain... - Streetsblog San Francisco

Spanish cities prioritize neighborhood-centric living, reducing the need for cars and enhancing sustainable local commerce.

Why are Dallas council members still trying to sell our sidewalks?

Dallas City Hall paused on a plan for digital kiosks, prioritizing pedestrian space over city revenue tactics amidst widespread public opposition.

Cockfosters car park plan 'ridiculous' - residents

The housing development at Cockfosters Tube station raises significant accessibility concerns for disabled individuals reliant on nearby parking.

Walk Like An Upper West Sider Part II: More Pedestrian Etiquette Musings

Texting and walking dangerously distracts pedestrians and can lead to accidents.
Proper etiquette on escalators and stairs helps maintain pedestrian flow.
#community

Trash Report: Artsy Edition! Killer Mike at the Symphony, Airport Ceiling vs Carpet, and Imagining Portland Weird Fest

Portland's cultural spaces are under pressure but show resilience through community support and artistic expression. Airports and drag bars highlight this vibrant struggle.

Doral's new park has a fishing pier, kayak launch and skate park. Here's a first look

Doral's new 78-acre Central Park opens, becoming the city's largest recreational area with various amenities and promoting community engagement.

Trash Report: Artsy Edition! Killer Mike at the Symphony, Airport Ceiling vs Carpet, and Imagining Portland Weird Fest

Portland's cultural spaces are under pressure but show resilience through community support and artistic expression. Airports and drag bars highlight this vibrant struggle.

Doral's new park has a fishing pier, kayak launch and skate park. Here's a first look

Doral's new 78-acre Central Park opens, becoming the city's largest recreational area with various amenities and promoting community engagement.
morecommunity

Latest community cleanup focuses on Ft. Hamilton Pkwy

The community cleanup in Bensonhurst was a collaborative effort aimed at improving local public spaces.

I love the nanny state, but let's leave outdoor smokers to puff away in peace | Martha Gill

Pub gardens thrive on the patronage of smokers, making winter use possible despite harsh weather conditions.

London Duathlon set for Richmond Park called off amid safety concerns

The London Duathlon is canceled due to safety concerns, impacting thousands of participants.
Organizers cited increased security and operational challenges as major reasons for the cancellation.

Stadiums are more than a symbol. They are built to exclude some people and include others

Guridy's "The Stadium" encourages a reevaluation of public spaces through the lens of American democracy and social equity.

Splashing in the Seine, diving in the Danube: the drive to make cities swimmable

Cities are rediscovering urban rivers as vital recreational spaces amidst rising temperatures.
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