Stories
We share stories and evidence on the link between urban design and human wellbeing.
All stories
New guidelines for age- and dementia-inclusive neighbourhoods
Learn the unique planning and design considerations for older adults and people living with dementia through a free online course.
Why are great streets so hard to build?
To make every street wonderful, add it to people’s job descriptions.
The secret to vibrant streets? Focus on what people can see
Transit-oriented development suggests that homes, shops, and services should all be located within 400 metres of transit. The actual distance to create vibrant streets may be much shorter.
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.
The responsibility of the building to the street
Structural engineers are responsible for ensuring that buildings do not fall over. Mechanical engineers must ensure that people inside can breathe. But what responsibility do building designers have to the street outside?
Walkability, like apple farming, is all about getting the basics right
How cities can implement good ideas faster.
Walkable Spanish streets show what’s possible for North America
Inspiration from the streets of Segovia and Logroño
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.
Students for safer streets: Learning from the new generation of activists
People who use city spaces are the experts on how those spaces succeed or fail them.
The pandemic is changing the way we use city spaces — for good
Responses to the pandemic can actually make cities happier, healthier and stronger in the long run.
Walking is economic growth
You know walking is good for your physical health, and even your emotional wellbeing. But did you know it’s critical for the fiscal health of your city too?
Can technology make our commutes happier?
Three questions to ask when considering a new mobility solution for your city.
Cairo transport advocates create a grassroots transit map
How can you use public transit if you don't even know where the buses run and what routes they take?