The Future of Urban Design – current trends and their impact
The future of Urban Design: current trends and their impact
Urban design is the art of shaping the physical environment of cities, towns, and other urban areas. It involves the planning and design of buildings, parks, streets, and public spaces, and it plays a crucial role in shaping the way people live, work, and interact with each other. With more than half of the global population now living in cities, the future of urban design is more important than ever. It is an ever-evolving field that constantly adapts to the changing needs and challenges of urban environments. As we look towards the future, there are several key trends that are likely to shape the direction of urban design in the years to come.
Image source: Paul Upward
The rise of sustainability, equality and technology
One of the most significant trends in urban design is the push towards sustainability. With concerns over climate change and dwindling resources, cities are increasingly focused on reducing their environmental impact and promoting sustainable living. This has led to a greater emphasis on green spaces, renewable energy, and sustainable transportation options.
In addition to sustainability, there is a growing recognition of the importance of social equity in urban design. Historically, many urban areas have been plagued by inequality, with certain neighborhoods receiving fewer resources and opportunities than others. Today, there is a greater emphasis on creating more inclusive and equitable urban environments, with a focus on providing affordable housing, accessible public transportation, and other resources to underserved communities.
Technology is also likely to play an increasingly important role in urban design. Advances in technology, such as the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence, are already being used to improve urban infrastructure and services, and this trend is only likely to accelerate in the coming years. For example, smart city initiatives are being implemented in cities around the world, which use sensors and data analysis to improve everything from traffic flow to waste management.
Another trend that is likely to shape the future of urban design is the growing importance of public health. Cities are increasingly focused on creating environments that promote physical and mental well-being so this could mean more green spaces and outdoor recreation areas, which would lead to better air quality, and therefore improving health.
Finally, there is a growing recognition of the importance of cultural heritage in urban design. Many cities are working to preserve and celebrate their unique cultural identities, whether through public art, historic preservation, or other initiatives. This helps to create a sense of place and community identity that can improve quality of life and attract tourists and businesses.
In conclusion, the future of urban design is likely to be shaped by a combination of sustainability, social equity, technology, public health, and cultural heritage. By incorporating these trends into their designs, urban planners and designers can create more liveable, inclusive, and sustainable cities for future generations.
We would love to be part of your project or talk through any ideas you may have to improve your spaces. Please get in touch with us. Email: Info@allurban.co.uk or call us on 0114 282 1283.
What is an alternative to disposable BBQs
What is an alternative to disposable BBQs?
British summertime can be hit and miss when it comes to the weather. However we seemed to be in luck last year as we saw temperatures rise to an all-time record level of 40.3c. The BBQs came out and the beaches were busy as of course, us brits love nothing better than a BBQ on the beach. What is not to like? gathering with friends and family, sea view, food, drink and music.
Image source: Flickr
But one question that may be on your mind is “are the days of disposable BBQs on the beach coming to an end?” Single use BBQ’s on the beach do have their pros, such as being lightweight and easy to use but they also come with cons (and they’re pretty major). They create a lot of litter every year and it’s also essentially a small fire on the beach so that in itself is dangerous. There have also been many reports of people misusing them and not disposing of them safely, which has led to some councils banning them altogether or creating stringent guidelines. The biggest risk has been people burying them in the sand or pebbles after use, essentially hiding them, which then creates a hot surface that people accidentally walk on, leading to (potentially very serious) burns.
Taking all this into consideration, Councils are starting to crank down and In July 2022 we saw Brighton and Hove ban the use of all single use BBQs on their beaches and public spaces. This is becoming the case in so many seaside beaches across the UK so will this become the norm?
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council encountered all the issues with the single-use BBQs so decided to do something about it. Instead of just outright banning them, they provided an alternative solution. We recently completed a project with them where they introduced our Christie electric BBQs along their seafront. They stated:
“The new electric BBQs help reduce the need to use disposable BBQs. These are often left as litter, impact the environment and pose a risk when left under the surface of the sand. Disposable BBQs can only be used on our beaches between 6pm to 10.30pm.”
See more in our case study here.
So are public BBQs the future? They promote community engagement as well as also being an environmentally sustainable solution as they reduce pollution and waste from disposable ones as well as reducing the risk of personal injury from open flames and hot coals. We are so passionate about the outdoors and we would love to discuss any projects you may have.
We would love to be part of your seafront project or talk through any ideas you may have to make them better spaces. Please get in touch with us. Email: Info@allurban.co.uk or call us on 0114 282 1283.
MoveART in pictures – beautiful, interactive and playful furniture for the public realm
MoveART in pictures – beautiful, interactive and playful furniture for the public realm
By Jennifer Acton 20th May 2022
MoveART in pictures – beautiful, interactive and playful furniture for the public realm
By Jennifer Acton
20th May 2022
MoveART is a brand we are proud to have in our portfolio. Founded by Norbert Roztocki in 2015, the Swiss-based company designs play sculptures that encourage and facilitate everyone, while also creating stunning pieces of functional art. Moveart are pioneers for these interactive multi-use pieces of art which encourage fun and exploration for all ages. In keeping with their tagline, ‘Awaken the personality of your space’, each form has been uniquely developed. They cater for all generations within the family unit, creating enjoyment for everyone, for example, ‘sitting’ ‘climbing’ or ‘hiding’ or even ‘working’
Since joining the All Urban designer brand portfolio, MoveART’s line of innovative and bespoke play sculptures has grown and grown. Made from 100% ecological and sustainable Accoya wood, which comes with Cradle to Cradle Gold certification, MoveART sculptures are particularly robust, low maintenance and are designed to be very vandalism-proof.
Why choose MoveART? It’s simple really, we want to improve the quality of life for people in public spaces.
As you can see from the images, MoveART is ideal for city streets, plazas and squares, public parks and gardens, river and canal sides, patios, terraces, rooftops, courtyards and much more. It really is the future of outdoor play, relaxation and art.
We welcome further conversations about these products and how we can help you create a beautiful space with a long life and low maintenance. Please contact us to find out more.
