It is not ‘What’ it is ‘HOW’
HOW we design places is shaped by who we talk to. Adopting approaches that articulate local knowledge and enable urbanists to understand how a place works and what needs to change, gives residents more agency in decisions that effect them.
Situational analysis and whole system thinking helps us to see place as an eco-system that needs balance to thrive. Expanding the notion of ‘the eco-system’ to include cultures, stories, shared histories, economies as well as natural actants, means we can grapple with greater complexity and look for more nuanced and interconnected solutions.
So, when designing a park we should consider and develop the social systems that need to be in place to help it succeed; does it need a residents group? can planting be co-designed so that there is synthesis between BNG and local communities? how can we ensure it is a great place to go on a summer evening, a place to play or do sport and a place for quiet time?
When designing a school we must consider how pupils will move around and use the space, where they will eat their lunch and how to reduce stress in corridors and shared spaces.
When designing new housing to consider where the nearest shop is and whether it is in walking distance, how to build-in sociability, safety and ensure design is gender sensitive, works for children and young people and all protected characteristics.
The best way to understand and learn about these nuances and complexities is to talk to the people involved.
Having these conversations before designs and plans are made means more open and constructive discussions can take place and that people have agency to shape outcomes.
“ Jennie is such an inspiration. She has brilliant ideas and has such a drive to bring positive changes to life. Jennie is sensitive to everyone's views and makes sure that all have a voice through the way she researches and collaborates to get projects completed. She does this on time and on budget. Her creativity and innovation shines through every detail of a project, from the way she communicates through events, to the way that she writes and illustrates. I would trust Jennie to deliver in an honest and constructive way, projects that include research, ideas, plans and means of implementation.” Dr. Caroline Jackson FRSA.