Welcome to week 14's edition of Pulse of Public Spaces, where we spotlight essential articles, reports, products and more - that drive urban development, engage communities, and support local municipalities in building thriving public spaces! Dive in to stay informed and inspired.
Feature Article of the Week
"What makes a street ‘cool'?"
By Anne-Marie Broudehoux
The withdrawal of MSG's Sphere project in Stratford highlights a key question: should flashy developments outweigh residents' concerns? While the Sphere promised innovation and economic gains, Londoners objected to potential noise and light pollution. This decision raises the issue of whether cities should prioritize such high-profile projects or focus on enhancing public spaces and affordable housing. Can extravagant architecture genuinely improve urban life, or should the emphasis be on creating inclusive, well-planned environments that address residents' needs more directly?
"More than individual buildings, how the city is planned as a whole variously harms or improves people’s lives."
Read the whole article here by The conversation
Feature Publication of the Week
The Block by Block playbook
Published by UNHabitat
Designing public spaces never comes with only one toolkit or guide. The design process can be inspired from various aspects, in this case, a game. But why a game? Well, Public Spaces are although designed by professionals but is made for people. Hence, the intent of it should also be understood by people and also should be help people contribute in it as well. The toolkit helps people come together to visualize their urban design ideas. The minecraft concept is also used in implementing the idea improving the professional and the social relations of the user.
Access the publication here
Feature Visual (that caught our eye!)
Credits to Homa Delvaray
Art, Social Space and Public Discourse in Iran
Featured Public Space
One Green Mile, Mumbai
MVRDV and StudioPOD have pulled off an urban makeover magic trick beneath Mumbai’s Senapati Bapat Marg flyover, and it’s nothing short of spectacular! Imagine turning a drab, concrete jungle into a vibrant, green oasis where the community can hang out and enjoy life. This fresh slice of urban paradise not only spruces up the area with lush greenery and cool amenities but also jazzes up the neighborhood with a bold new look. It’s like giving a makeover to a grumpy old wallflower and making it the life of the party. Plus, it’s a shining example of how we can transform neglected spots into fantastic public spaces, setting the stage for sustainable urban coolness in bustling cities.
Read more: One Green Mile
Stay tuned for next week's Pulse of Public Spaces for more insights and inspiration!
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