Recognising the power of urban planning and architecture to shape our urban way of life, design has the power to transform lives – whether to uplift or to oppress. From shaping plans to favour certain neighbourhoods or transport modes, to designing spaces to attract target groups, design is a subjective tool that serves to achieve certain outcomes and goals. Towards shaping more equitable places, designers have the responsibility to intentionally plan for inclusivity, access and comfort of all communities.
The term ‘public good’ refers to a commodity or service that every member of a society can consume freely without reducing its availability to others. Examples of this can include public infrastructure, clean air, public health and government services. Here at WY-TO, we believe that design serves both a public good in itself and a tool towards expanding it.
The planning and design of public infrastructure have far-reaching impacts on people’s lives. For example, the expansion of transportation networks can connect previously isolated residents to the rest of the city. The location of a new MRT station can thus signal access to a wider range of jobs, educational opportunities and amenities near home. This especially benefits the marginalised who may not have alternatives like a private car to rely on for more opportunities across the city.
The equitable provision of a public good can spur manifold benefits. Accessible salutogenic green spaces such as public parks offer a chance for rest and relaxation – especially valuable for those living in smaller homes. Parks also create opportunities for events, activities and chance encounters between various communities to enjoy. Amenities such as running tracks, fitness corners and playgrounds can also encourage and support an active lifestyle. Thus, the planned, equitable distribution of parks can produce other public good: such as better community health and a stronger social fabric.
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Towards designing for equity, one shall understand the diverse needs and wants of communities and individuals to tailor unique solutions. Facing Singapore’s aging population, a number of strategies to develop inclusive spaces and homes for the elderly have been implemented. Universal Design principles have been applied across towns to accommodate users of alleges, integrating gentle ramps and sheltered walkways* to allow all to navigate the city safely and comfortably. In neighbourhoods, Community Care apartments fitted with inclusive features (such as a wheel-chair-friendly main door and bathroom) and communal spaces on each floor in offering a balance of privacy and access to care services*. In Bukit Batok, these units are also co-located with amenities such as an activity centre, community garden and hawker centre* for easy access to key amenities. Such curated strategies empower seniors to age with dignity and agency.
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Design has a role to play in shaping welcoming civic spacesthat invite diverse users to seek needed public services. This can be seen at grovve, an integrated wellness centre designed in a collaboration between FARM and WY-TO. Recognising the stigma surrounding mental health services, the colourful and lively space was designed in distinct contrast to typical healthcare spaces. Through co-locating social spaces within the centre, youth are invited to visit various events, activities and for informal gatherings. The centre is therefore positioned not only as a healthcare facility but also as an attractive social node for youths. Notably, community engagement was crucial to developing a design well-suited to users’ needs.
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Grounded in the belief that design should be a tool to expand social good, our cities can grow to be more equitable through strategic planning and design. By co-creating with as wide range of stakeholders(clients, operational and maintenance staff, visitors and specialised consultants), we can shape a city that serves its diverse communities justly.
