A city, in its simplest form, often consists of two fundamental principles: Liveability and Lovability. While Liveability provides a tangible urban framework set by policy-makers and urban planners through policies, regulations, etc…, intentional placemaking can be seen as a script used to elevate everyday experiences.
The script can influence contrasting urban design outcomes when framed through the lens of each fundamental principle:
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A liveable city can be said to provide pragmatic spaces for people to reasonably meet their everyday needs. The *EIU outlines 5 broad categories in which a city's liveability is determined. They are Stability & Security; political stability and crime rates, Healthcare; accessibility and quality, Infrastructure & Urban Design; transport systems, housing and utilities, and Culture and Environment; societal freedom and climate.
Cities can become nurturing environments that contribute to our interactions and growth when planned meaningfully. Our urban design methodology involves shifting from a single-point focus to designing holistic strategies. This opens multi-fold inclusive opportunities for all to benefit. In return, strong place identities are created through our engagements.
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At WY-TO, we believe that Loveability is nurtured when people’s intangible experiences are at the heart of every decision. The human-centric approach focuses on empowering spaces to do more with diversity in mind. Thereby, initiating space-to-place transformation with scales of well-being interventions. Everyday routines will then be considered as programming narratives opportunities to connect, shape and evolve alongside people.
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With that regard, Planners, Practitioners, and Designers can leverage existing experiences to outline effective placemaking and place designs. When communities feel seen and heard, a deeper sense of belonging and attachment will be felt. The derived strategies will become more than short-term solutions to immediate challenges but rather, transformative in the long haul. Once intentional urban placemaking strategies will sprout organic space activation – achieving the “top-down meets bottom-up” system relation we advocate.
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A city guided by Loveability becomes a catalyst for change, unique place experiences to blossom and ultimately, a home where every heart belongs.
Resources: Economic Intelligence Unit (EIU)
