The Trifecta: Urbanism, Architecture, and Nature

Susan Henderson shares some thoughts about the alignment of issues contributing to well-being in cities.

1 minute read

February 1, 2017, 5:00 AM PST

By Hazel Borys


Place Dauphine in Paris

Place Dauphine in Paris. | Image: Susan Henderson / CreativeCommons Sharealike License.

"We often blog on the benefits of nature integrated into urbanism and wellbeing outcomes of walkability. The real trifecta is when walkable urbanism, human-scale architecture, and nature come together via placemaking. A recent study from the University of Warwick points out that a scenic view delivers equal health benefits to access to nature: 'Cohesion of architecture and design boosts people’s health and happiness, not just the number of parks and trees.'”

"We’ve discussed how walkability isn’t just about the streets and buildings, but rather about the experience. And some of the details of urban design that make for great plazas, squares, and people places. As well as why our zoning laws usually fail to deliver these immersive environments."

Susan Henderson turns to "one of the world’s most walkable cities – Paris – and what her streets have to teach about urbanism, architecture, and nature."

Tuesday, January 31, 2017 in PlaceShakers

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