Portfolio
We’ve worked with nations, cities, developers and non-profits around the world to build happier, healthier and more inclusive communities.
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Park City main street area plan
Happy Cities developed a plan to transform Main Street into a vibrant community hub that welcomes locals and international tourists alike.
Tysons, Virginia placemaking framework
The Tysons Community Alliance is creating a sense of place through low-cost, colourful, and creative placemaking initiatives.
North Vancouver open streets: Public life study
In 2020, the City of North Vancouver launched the Open Streets initiative in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This program repurposed vehicle lanes into pedestrian-friendly spaces to bolster economic recovery and social connection. Over time, Open Streets have enhanced the public realm, providing additional outdoor areas for neighbors and strangers to connect and socialize.
Focus Newton placemaking action plan, Surrey
Happy Cities is spearheading community engagement for the City of Surrey's Focus Newton project, aimed at revitalizing public spaces in the Newton neighborhood.
Age- and dementia-inclusive neighbourhood design guidelines
Happy Cities, in collaboration with researchers from Simon Fraser University, has developed a new guide on how neighborhoods can better support individuals living with dementia.
Zamorano University placemaking master plan
Campus spaces serve as vibrant hubs for student life, accommodating diverse activities from picnics to concerts. Designing these spaces to support such varied uses enhances their role as central community gathering spots.
Spring Garden Road, Halifax wellbeing assessment methodology
In 2021, Halifax's iconic Spring Garden Road underwent a $10-million streetscape reconstruction project, central to the city's identity as a vibrant hub. Happy Cities was commissioned to develop a methodology to assess the project's impact on enhancing people's well-being.
Sea2City: Envisioning a resilient future for False Creek
The City of Vancouver initiated an international design challenge to address the vulnerability of waterfront areas, such as False Creek, to climate change impacts like sea level rise and flooding. This aims to envision a more resilient future for the area.
Richmond patio program
Amid the pandemic, Richmond swiftly implemented the Expedited Temporary Outdoor Patio Program, enabling local businesses to expand seating areas safely. This innovative measure supported businesses, ensuring compliance with COVID-19 public health orders.
Uptown active transportation and public realm improvements
In 2021, the City of New Westminster initiated projects in the Uptown neighborhood to create safe, comfortable, and accessible walking, wheeling, and biking corridors and public spaces for people of all ages and abilities.
Agnes Street Greenway activations
Boost usage of your city's greenway or bike lane by involving residents and stakeholders in creating eye-catching activations along the route, such as art installations. Transform streets into vibrant public spaces!
Crosstown Greenway: Youth-led placemaking for safer streets
Happy Cities partnered with New Westminster and Glenbrook Middle School, installing student-designed curb bump-outs supported by Spin. The project aimed to enhance safety near the school and raise awareness of the Glenbrook/Rotary Crosstown Greenway.
Vancouver breweries patio wellbeing study
Amid COVID-19's economic strain, Vancouver businesses innovate to ensure safe and comfortable reopening experiences.
Downtown Vancouver laneway transformation strategy
In Downtown Vancouver, 70,000 residents and 140,000 workers coexist, yet many feel increasingly isolated despite digital connections. Crowded public spaces offer amenities but exacerbate social distance.
Streets for people in 2020
Cities can balance pandemic restrictions and outdoor enjoyment by ensuring ample space for activities.
Rapid placemaking to bring back Main Street
COVID-19 hit Canada's main streets hard, with closures devastating small businesses. Immediate action is needed, but inclusive planning is crucial for safer, stronger, and more inclusive long-term improvements.
Mexico City urban parks audit and assessment
Mexico City boasts two of the world's largest urban parks: Chapultepec and San Juan de Aragon. These expansive parks feature green spaces, lush forests, and various amenities including playgrounds and skate parks, providing residents with ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation.
Inspired by nature: Creative placemaking master plan
Happy Cities partnered with Superior, CO, to foster community unity through art and public spaces. "Inspired by Nature: Superior’s Creative Placemaking Master Plan" celebrates local identity and values.