Reimagining the Public Realm Through Public Space Activation and Stewardship

Public space has always been an integral part of human life. It supports the widest diversity of experiences and offers some of the best experiences overall, according to Gensler’s Experience Index research. From your local park, to the sidewalks on city streets, to the terraces and gardens provided by restaurants or retail centers, these spaces define our collective urban (and suburban) experiences. And after months of isolation from much of the outside world through the lockdown spurred by coronavirus, public space has been at the center of our social lives as a “safe” place to connect with others while social distancing. Now more than ever, these spaces are poised to become the lifeblood of our neighborhoods and cities. Today's guests will discuss how we might design cities that work for everyone and facilitate both organized and spontaneous connections between diverse people.