Portfolio

We’ve worked with nations, cities, developers and non-profits around the world to build happier, healthier and more inclusive communities.

Urban planning, Community engagement Happy Cities Urban planning, Community engagement Happy Cities

Halifax arts venues needs assessment

Happy Cities is spearheading the Performing and Visual Arts Venues Study for Halifax Regional Municipality. This initiative aims to provide the municipality with insights to invest in spaces that foster a thriving local arts scene, promoting inclusivity and ensuring accessibility to arts and culture for all residents of Halifax.

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Urban planning, Urban design Happy Cities Urban planning, Urban design Happy Cities

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.

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Housing, Urban planning Happy Cities Housing, Urban planning Happy Cities

My home, my neighbourhood wellbeing study

In response to Metro Vancouver's housing crisis, British Columbia announced new legislation in November 2023. This includes legalizing three to six units per lot province-wide and designating areas near rapid transit stations as "transit-oriented development" zones. Cities in these areas must allow taller residential buildings and eliminate parking minimums.

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Urban planning Happy Cities Urban planning Happy Cities

Community wellbeing assessment tool

Happy Cities has dedicated over a decade to researching the connections between urban design and well-being. Our efforts culminated in a cutting-edge community assessment tool. This tool evaluates four design realms and tracks over 80 evidence-based criteria to gauge a project's impact on well-being.

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