Public Space

Transplanting the wildly popular pilot projects in NYC and SF across the northern border, the City launches VIVA Vancouver program that converts parts of eight streets into public spaces.

September 9, 2011 - THE DIRT

Got what it takes to revamp the Union Square, Washington Monument Grounds, and Constitution Gardens? The design competition is now open to anyone who has the vision of making this revered space in D.C. the "best park in the world."

September 9, 2011 - THE DIRT

Plans are moving ahead to convert Berlin's Tempelhof airfield into the city's newest park.

August 25, 2011 - The Wall Street Journal

As San Francisco prepares to host the 2013 America's Cup regatta, plans to use parts of the city's scenic waterfront for spectators' yacht parking edge too far into the public realm, according to this piece from the San Francisco Chronicle.

August 25, 2011 - San Francisco Chronicle

An unconventional outdoor spaces has helped transform a small part of a problem-riddled San Francisco neighborhood.

August 18, 2011 - Next American City

Neighborhoods in New York City have built temporary "pop-up" playgrounds in an effort to encourage more physical activity among children.

August 16, 2011 - The New York Times

Urban regeneration in Detroit begins with public space in a form of street market - one that sells plenty of fruits and vegetables.

July 24, 2011 - Putting People First

A new public park in downtown Phoenix is both a venue for artists and performers and a public space that calls to mind a small neighborhood park, according to this piece from Next American City.

July 21, 2011 - Next American City

In an effort to improve the visitor experience and boost business, operators of a busy transit hub in Boston are bringing in performers and various activities to entertain people waiting and convince others to linger longer.

July 19, 2011 - The Boston Globe

As the desire for wireless internet increases, some public parks are finding that Wi-Fi networks are becoming a new and important amenity.

July 18, 2011 - Time

Parking spaces in San Francisco are being repurposed as small patio-like park spaces and out door seating areas. John King of the San Francisco Chronicle looks at how they've become part of the city.

July 15, 2011 - San Francisco Chronicle

New playground designs are shaking up public parks around the world. So long, slides, hello interpretive playscapes.

July 12, 2011 - Dwell

Scheduled to open in two months on the day after the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, project architect Michael Arad and landscape architect Peter Walker discuss their masterpiece.

July 11, 2011 - The Wall Street Journal

Amanda Burden's High Line has elevated public space to new heights. "+Pool" design trio want to submerge it under water, specifically in the East River that runs through NYC.

July 1, 2011 - Metropolis Magazine

Imported from Europe, parklets transform parking spaces into inviting public spaces. They are flourishing in San Francisco, and are poised to invade other cities across the country.

June 29, 2011 - California Planning & Development Report

More than 40 ping pong tables will be placed in public spaces throughout the English city of Hull this summer. It's part of a nationwide effort to get more people to exercise.

June 28, 2011 - Yorkshire Post

Jay Walljasper says U.S. cities are greatly lacking in pedestrian-only shopping districts, and points to their success in Europe as a model.

June 15, 2011 - Shareable

Just before the second phase of New York City's High Line park opened this week, Bloomberg architecture critic James S. Russell toured the new addition with its architect and landscape architect.

June 10, 2011 - Bloomberg

Construction has begun on a new park beneath a Toronto freeway overpass. The Toronto Star's Christopher Hume says the park will change the city forever.

June 9, 2011 - The Toronto Star

Philadelphia is seeing a surge in new parks, as new public-realm projects are either opening or moving closer towards development.

June 2, 2011 - The Philadelphia Inquirer