Stories
We share stories and evidence on the link between urban design and human wellbeing.
All stories
The case for social infrastructure
Social spaces and networks create an essential foundation for healthy, resilient communities. But they’re hard to measure.
Zoning won’t create walkable suburbs on its own. But one great block might.
Surrey, B.C. shows a promising strategy to transform suburbs into more walkable, vibrant communities.
Don’t fear density: BC’s housing targets can be a wellbeing win
More housing is coming for 10 B.C. municipalities. Here are three ways that density can boost community health and wellbeing.
How to design a dementia-inclusive community
New planning and design guidelines to boost wellbeing for people living with dementia, from Happy Cities and SFU.
Walkability, like apple farming, is all about getting the basics right
How cities can implement good ideas faster.
How standards can enable more diversity in urban design
If residents want to live in a walkable community, it's the planner's job to communicate the requirements—and then lay the foundations for a wonderful, walkable place.
We can’t solve affordability while ignoring wellbeing
Demand for great communities is pushing up prices and displacing residents. We must build more great communities.
How do you help an entire nation build happier communities?
There’s one sure way to avoid the negative effects of stressful, dangerous and disconnected communities: start using evidence to guide urban design. We’re helping the United Arab Emirates do just that.
Will Vancouver's ambitious new housing strategy make the city healthier and happier?
Vancouver, like so many cities, is experiencing a painful housing crisis. The city is the least affordable in North America.