StreetsSmart

A successful city is a lot like a puzzle, but it shouldn’t feel that way for the people living in it. What if walking through a city felt more like an invitation, and less like a challenge? In this episode we explore how sensory design, social design, and inclusive design can transform urban environments into places that are easy to exist in.   -   Special thanks to the following sources:  America...

How do cities create stories that stick? In this episode, we explore the art of place branding and the power of iconic campaigns, like the legendary “I ❤️ NY” logo that transformed New York City’s image worldwide. We’ll consider the theory behind place branding and how cities use storytelling to shape their identities, attract visitors, and inspire local pride. From slogans to symbols, discover ho...

Welcome back to the StreetsSmart podcast. In this episode, we dive into the complex world of safety in public spaces, exploring the application of the "eyes on the street" philosophy pioneered by urbanist Jane Jacobs. Public surveillance technology, and the ethics upholding these systems, increasingly raise questions about safety and privacy. Who is watching, and are they really keeping us safe? A...

In the final episode of the StreetsSmart mini series, we explore the crucial role of urban systems in addressing climate change. From reimagining transportation systems and the possibilities of electrified fleets, to revolutionizing building practices with innovative design, cities are leading the charge towards a greener future.  -  Special thanks to the following sources: Alternative Fuels Data...

From optimizing traffic patterns to real-time energy management, global cities are using smart city technology to transform urban life. Yet as we embrace these innovations, questions of equity and privacy emerge. In this episode, StreetsSmart considers the emerging reality of smart cities, and the role of technology in shaping the urban experience. - Special thanks to the following sources: A City...

Urban planning concepts frequently find their way into the vernacular of the wider public. Some of these ideas, like the 15 minute city, have invited a host of criticism and celebration alike. Join StreetsSmart in exploring the potential of the 15-minute city, and some of the unique ways cities around the world have adopted it.  -  Special thanks to the following sources: Complete Neighborhoods -...

Is the rising homogeneity of cities threatening our ability to develop place attachment? Explored through the lens of psychology and urban design, we unravel how our identities are intertwined with the places we inhabit, and how innovative projects have the potential to restore vibrant and meaningful cities. - Special thanks to the following sources:  Culdesac Tempe: A Car-Free Neighborhood Findin...

In the first episode of the StreetsSmart mini series, we navigate the intricate history of urban planning and uncover the hidden stories behind the cities we call home. Join StreetsSmart in an important conversation on the legibility of cities, exclusionary zoning practices, and the threat of urban sprawl. - Special thanks to the following sources: The Image of the City, by Kevin Lynch  The Color...