This is the second blog on issues to be addressed at the 55th International Making Cities Livable Conference, May 14-18, 2018, in Ottawa. Many of the world’s cities are growing rapidly. But HOW should we grow? Should we grow vertically? Should we grow horizontally? Or should we search for the missing sweet spot in the middle? … Read more
Part One – Defining Principles Around the world cities are growing rapidly. Some are spreading horizontally, some are reaching for the sky, and others are searching for the sweet spot in the middle. Which approach offers the best solutions? This is a question we shall address at the 55th International Making Cities Livable Conference, May … Read more
For all of you who were at the Santa Fe Conference you will be glad to know that the photos are now up online. Please click here to access them. In addition to photos of the Awards Ceremony, Sessions, and Workshop, there are also many photos of the social events – Welcome Reception, Mobile Workshops, … Read more
Jury’s comment: This project to save the historic fabric and vibrant quality of life of a section of London has enormous international significance, especially now, when large scale demolition of swathes of historic cities around the world is accelerating. The Norton Folgate district was democratically designated a Conservation Area 40 years ago. Mayor Johnson unilaterally … Read more
It is of great significance that a major Texan city wedded to the automobile has created a main square free of traffic. Sundance Square, framed by fine early 20th century buildings, transforms two parking lots into the pedestrian heart of Fort Worth. The IMCL Awards Competition Jury selected Sundance Square to receive the IMCL Honor … Read more
By Suzanne H. Crowhurst Lennard The building façade is the “face” of the building. Like the face of a person, it may be friendly or hostile, open or closed, facilitating contact through windows that open, balconies and doors, or preventing interaction with sealed windows and blank walls. Facades around a neighborhood square should create a … Read more
By Suzanne H. Crowhurst Lennard “In ancient times… public squares, or plazas, were… of prime necessity, for they were theaters for the principal scenes of public life.” Camillo Sitte[1]. “… there must be open spaces that provide a fitting stage for the drama of daily life.” August Heckscher[2]. Lively social life in the community requires … Read more
Did you miss the conference in Santa Fe but wish you could still read the papers and view the slideshows? Perhaps you attended the conference but didn't get a chance to see all the presentations and wish you could fill in the gaps. In either case, the eConference is your ticket! Who is the eConference … Read more
By Suzanne H. Crowhurst Lennard The entrance into a neighborhood square is designed to create the experience that you have arrived at the heart of the community, and that you need go no further. A vista into the square from an adjacent street should reveal the life on the square, the sunlight, bright umbrellas, children … Read more
By Suzanne H. Crowhurst Lennard To be successful, a neighborhood square must be designed for people. It must feel like the community’s living room – lively, safe, comfortable and hospitable. It must facilitate social interaction and foster a sense of community identity. To achieve these goals, enclosure, sunlight and shade, protection from inclement weather, and … Read more