Humanizing Urban cities

Fig 1. Tatiana Bilbao’s Botaniqo Residential complex

Throughout history, humans have continuously crafted buildings and environments. Along the way, however, our focus shifted towards constructing grandiose, cost-driven urban landscapes, losing sight of the essence of design. Originally, structures and outdoor areas were tailored to human requirements. Thus, it’s critical to prioritize people’s needs, extending beyond mere shelter or indoor comfort.

Living in lockdown confronted dwellers around the world with living in confined domestic environment. It reminded the benefit of well designed and accessible public realm. As people started stepping out, the importance of having well designed public spaces, both indoors and outdoors got visible. Certain factors like mixed used developments, efficient public transport connecting far off areas, good community spaces. proper green spaces, and pedestrian circulation became more important.

Fig 2. Community space for peace in Venezuela – Espacios de paz

Importance of Mixed used development

Integrating a blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces within neighbourhoods fosters dynamic communities where residents can stroll, engage, and socialize. The traditional approach of designing distinct residential, commercial, and recreational zones is no longer practical. Prioritizing the creation of environments that offer inhabitants a sense of comfort and well-being is paramount.

Fig 3. Building Illustration – Re-humanizing boring structures

Inclusive Urban spaces

The importance of designing urban spaces that are accessible and user friendly for everyone, including people with disabilities, seniors, children, and other marginalized groups must be emphasized. Adopting universal design principles can enhance accessibility, safety, and usability for all residents and visitors, promoting social inclusion.

There are many strategies for implementing Universal design:

Barrier free access to buildings, public transport, and outdoor spaces.
Incorporating signage, tactile paving to assist people with visual impairments.
Providing seating at regular intervals to accommodate people with mobility limitation.
Designing streets with wide sidewalks, curb cuts, and ramps to facilitate pedestrian movement.
Installing accessible public toilets and amenities.
Creating inclusive playgrounds and recreational spaces that cater to children of all abilities.

Fig 4. Green Urban space + Learning

Wildlife in the city

The cities can support and enhance urban biodiversity by including wildlife habitats amidst urban development. It is not only significant to ecosystem health, but also human wellbeing and urban resilience. Urban areas can provide habitats for a wide range of plants and animals, contributing to ecological balance.

Strategies for Wildlife friendly cities:

Incorporate parks, green spaces, and wildlife corridors to provide habitat connectivity.
Implement wildlife friendly design principles, such as green roofs, rain gardens, and native plants.
Engage local communities and stake holders in conservation efforts.
Adopt wildlife friendly policies and regulations.

Fig 5. Cities can be Wildlife Havens

Environmental preservation

Sustainable urban development drives economic growth through innovation, job creation, and enhance competitiveness. These cities are better equipped to withstand and recover from various risks and crises. Communities that promote it experience better lifestyles, clean air and access to healthcare services.

One of Beatley’s notable quotes from the book is “Sustainable neighborhoods are not just about being green, they are about the kinds of places we want to live and raise our children in.” This captures the essence of his argument, highlighting the connection of environmental sustainability with human well-being and community livability.

Fig 6. Towards sustainable spaces

To summarize, Re-humanizing cities with the aim of promoting human connection involves approaches which are rooted in urban design principles.

By prioritizing human centered approaches and integrating principles of inclusivity, biodiversity, and sustainable activity, cities can be transformed into vibrant, resilient and social community spaces.

Fig 7. Happy streets, by Francesca Sacco

Humanizing Urban cities