Creating Vibrant Cities: Public Space Planning and Urban Livability Training Course

Introduction

Public spaces—from bustling city squares and tranquil parks to inviting streetscapes and waterfront promenades—are the vital arteries of urban life, serving as crucial venues for social interaction, cultural expression, and economic activity. Thoughtful planning and design of these shared environments are paramount to fostering urban livability, enhancing community well-being, and building resilient cities. Without a strategic approach to creating high-quality public spaces, urban areas risk becoming fragmented, uninviting, and less responsive to the diverse needs of their inhabitants.

This intensive training course is meticulously designed to equip urban planners, architects, landscape architects, city officials, community leaders, and real estate developers with the essential knowledge and practical tools to master the principles and practices of public space planning and urban livability. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of design strategies, community engagement techniques, programming for vibrant spaces, and the economic and social benefits of well-managed public realms, empowering them to contribute effectively to the creation of truly livable and thriving urban environments.

Target Audience

  • Urban Planners and City Officials.
  • Architects and Landscape Architects.
  • Community Development Professionals.
  • Public Park and Recreation Managers.
  • Real Estate Developers and Urban Regeneration Specialists.
  • Public Health Professionals focused on urban environments.
  • Artists and Cultural Programmers.
  • Students and aspiring urban designers.

Duration: 5 days

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this training course, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the fundamental concepts and importance of public spaces in urban livability.
  • Grasp the various typologies and functions of public spaces.
  • Analyze the social, economic, and environmental benefits of high-quality public realms.
  • Comprehend methodologies for designing inclusive, safe, and vibrant public spaces.
  • Evaluate strategies for effective community engagement and participatory design.
  • Develop practical skills in site analysis and programming for public spaces.
  • Navigate the complexities of governance, funding, and maintenance for public spaces.
  • Formulate robust strategies for activating and managing public spaces.
  • Understand the role of technology and data in enhancing public space experiences.
  • Champion a human-centered approach to urban design and placemaking.

Course Content

  1. Foundations of Public Space and Urban Livability
  • Defining public spaces: parks, plazas, streets, waterfronts.
  • The historical evolution and significance of public spaces.
  • Understanding urban livability and its key indicators.
  • The role of public spaces in fostering social interaction and community.
  • Connecting public space quality to economic vitality and public health.
  1. Typologies and Functions of Public Spaces
  • Categorizing public spaces: civic, recreational, commercial, natural.
  • Understanding the diverse functions of public spaces.
  • Designing for different scales: neighborhood parks to metropolitan plazas.
  • The role of streets as public spaces and complete streets concepts.
  • Case studies of iconic public spaces and their functions.
  1. Principles of Public Space Design
  • Designing for human scale, comfort, and safety.
  • Principles of accessibility and universal design.
  • Integrating green infrastructure and ecological elements.
  • The use of materials, lighting, and furniture in public space design.
  • Creating legible and aesthetically pleasing environments.
  1. Community Engagement and Participatory Design
  • The importance of involving communities in public space design.
  • Techniques for effective public outreach and consultation.
  • Facilitating participatory design workshops and charrettes.
  • Managing diverse stakeholder interests and building consensus.
  • Promoting co-creation and ownership of public spaces.
  1. Programming and Activation of Public Spaces
  • Strategies for programming public spaces with diverse activities.
  • Activating spaces through events, markets, and cultural performances.
  • The role of temporary interventions and tactical urbanism.
  • Fostering spontaneous use and informal gatherings.
  • Measuring the success of public space activation.
  1. Governance, Management, and Funding
  • Different models for public space governance and management.
  • Sources of funding for public space development and maintenance.
  • Public-private partnerships (PPPs) in public space management.
  • Operational planning and maintenance strategies.
  • Legal and regulatory frameworks for public spaces.
  1. Social Equity and Inclusion in Public Spaces
  • Ensuring equitable access to public spaces for all populations.
  • Addressing issues of social exclusion and gentrification.
  • Designing for diverse cultural needs and preferences.
  • Promoting safety and comfort for vulnerable groups.
  • The role of public spaces in fostering social cohesion.
  1. Environmental Benefits and Green Infrastructure
  • The role of public spaces in urban ecology and biodiversity.
  • Integrating green infrastructure: rain gardens, permeable pavements.
  • Urban tree canopy and cooling strategies.
  • Water management and stormwater retention in public spaces.
  • Climate change adaptation and resilience through green spaces.
  1. Technology and Innovation in Public Spaces
  • Smart park technologies and IoT integration.
  • Data analytics for understanding public space usage.
  • Digital tools for public participation and feedback.
  • Interactive installations and digital art in public spaces.
  • Cybersecurity and privacy considerations in smart public spaces.
  1. Case Studies and Future Trends
  • In-depth analysis of successful public space projects globally.
  • Examination of real-world challenges and innovative solutions.
  • Best practices in public space planning, design, and management.
  • Group exercises on developing public space design concepts.
  • Future outlook for public spaces in evolving urban landscapes.

 

CERTIFICATION

  • Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with Macskills Training and Development Institute Certificate

TRAINING VENUE

  • Training will be held at Macskills Training Centre. We also tailor make the training upon request at different locations across the world.

AIRPORT PICK UP AND ACCOMMODATION

  • Airport Pick Up is provided by the institute. Accommodation is arranged upon request

TERMS OF PAYMENT

Payment should be made to Macskills Development Institute bank account before the start of the training and receipts sent to info@macskillsdevelopment.com

For More Details call: +254-114-087-180

 

 

Creating Vibrant Cities: Public Space Planning And Urban Livability Training Course in Papua New Guinea
Dates Fees Location Action