Pop-up parks revitalize empty lots

Pop-up parks that provide instant open areas for public use and programming can revitalize under-utilized spaces and add vibrancy to neighborhoods.

Some of these spaces may have originally been used as parking lots or become abandoned after a fire destroyed a structure on the property.

These repurposed public spaces can accelerate real estate development, spur more vitality in emerging neighborhoods, support businesses, and foster safe pedestrian zones.

Some developers have used these spaces to their advantage. For example, a 10,000-sf pop-up park in The Boro in Tysons, Va., attracted neighbors to learn more about The Boro and Tyson’s rapid growth.

Regular visitors to the park include nearby employees, children’s day care centers, and dogs. The park has hosted farmers markets, yoga, and social events.

Climate change is having a dramatic impact on urban design, in terms of planning, materials, occupant use, location, and the long-term effect of buildings on the environment. Joining BD+C's John Caulfield to discuss this topic are two experts from the Boston-based CBT Architects: Kishore Varanasi, a Principal and director of urban design; and Devanshi Purohit, an Associate Principal.

Planning for hospital campus access that works for people

This course defines the elements of hospital campus access that are essential to promoting the efficient, stress-free movement of patients, staff, family, and visitors. Campus access elements include signage and wayfinding, parking facilities, transportation demand management, shuttle buses, curb access, valet parking management, roadways, and pedestrian walkways.

Urban Planning | Apr 5, 2022

The art of master planning, with Mike Aziz of Cooper Robertson

Mike Aziz, AIA, LEED AP, Partner and Director of Urban Design with Cooper Robertson, discusses his firm's design for the redevelopment of a Connecticut town's riverfront.

Multifamily Housing | Mar 29, 2022

Here’s why the U.S. needs more ‘TOD’ housing

Transit-oriented developments help address the housing affordability issue that many cities and suburbs are facing.

Urban Planning | Feb 14, 2022

5 steps to remake suburbs into green communities where people want to live, work, and play

Stantec's John Bachmann offers proven tactic for retrofitting communities for success in the post-COVID era.

Urban Planning | Feb 11, 2022

6 ways to breathe life into mixed-use spaces

To activate mixed-use spaces and realize their fullest potential, project teams should aim to create a sense of community and pay homage to the local history.

Urban Planning | Jan 25, 2022

Retooling innovation districts for medium-sized cities

This type of development isn’t just about innovation or lab space; and it’s not just universities or research institutions that are driving this change.