The Importance of Community Design and Placemaking: Restoring Human Connection

At Einhorn, we believe that great architecture and planning should go beyond buildings; it should foster human connection and cultivate a true sense of community. Understanding how we arrived at our current urban landscape—and how we can reshape it—requires looking back at the history of planning and considering the impact of car-centric development.

A Brief History of Urban Planning

Urban planning as a discipline has roots that stretch back to ancient civilizations, where cities were designed around central public spaces, markets, and gathering areas. The agora of Ancient Greece, the Roman forum, and medieval town squares were all central hubs that promoted social interaction, commerce, and a shared sense of belonging.

However, as industrialization advanced in the 19th and early 20th centuries, cities rapidly expanded and became congested. The solution at the time was to prioritize efficiency and movement, leading to wide roads and sprawling suburbs. This shift marked the beginning of planning strategies that emphasized vehicles over pedestrians.

The Rise of Car-Centric Development

The mid-20th century brought a boom in automobile ownership, and urban design adapted accordingly. Highways were built to connect cities and facilitate suburban growth, and urban centers were carved out to accommodate multi-lane roads and parking structures. While these developments promoted mobility and economic expansion, they also had profound negative impacts on communities:

• Fragmented Neighborhoods: Highways and wide roads often cut through neighborhoods, disconnecting residents and reducing walkability.

• Decreased Public Space: The need for parking and road infrastructure consumed land that could have been used for parks, plazas, and communal areas.

• Loss of Human Scale: The scale of car-centric cities prioritized vehicles over pedestrians, making urban areas less inviting for people.

These changes shifted the focus of cities away from community and towards commuting, isolating residents and limiting spontaneous social interactions.

The Case for Community Design and Placemaking

In response to the challenges posed by car-centric development, urban planners and designers have turned back to concepts that prioritize human experience. Community design and placemaking are essential strategies in creating spaces where people can connect, interact, and thrive.

What is Placemaking? Placemaking is an approach to planning and design that puts people at the center. It focuses on creating vibrant public spaces that foster a sense of belonging and encourage social interaction. Successful placemaking considers:

• Accessibility and Walkability: Designing streets and pathways that prioritize pedestrians and cyclists.

• Mixed-Use Development: Integrating residential, commercial, and recreational spaces to promote activity throughout the day.

• Public Spaces: Creating parks, plazas, and community centers that act as focal points for gatherings.

• Community Involvement: Engaging residents in the planning process to ensure the space reflects their needs and aspirations.

Benefits of Community-Centered Design:

• Enhanced Quality of Life: Well-designed spaces contribute to physical and mental well-being by encouraging outdoor activities and social interaction.

• Economic Growth: Active, inviting public spaces attract visitors and businesses, boosting local economies.

• Environmental Sustainability: Reducing reliance on cars by creating walkable communities lowers emissions and promotes eco-friendly transportation options.

How We Can Restore Human Connection Through Design

Restoring human connection through proper community design involves more than just building attractive spaces; it requires a holistic approach that prioritizes the needs of people over vehicles. Key principles include:

• Prioritizing Pedestrian-Centric Infrastructure: Narrowing streets, adding pedestrian crossings, and expanding sidewalks can help transform car-dominated areas into walkable neighborhoods.

• Integrating Green Spaces: Parks, community gardens, and natural landscapes provide areas for relaxation and foster a connection to nature.

• Designing for Social Interaction: Thoughtfully placed seating, public art, and interactive elements invite people to pause, engage, and converse.

• Mixed-Use Spaces: Incorporating residential, retail, and public services within walking distance ensures that communities remain lively and connected.

At Einhorn, we believe that architecture should inspire connection, not isolation. By reimagining urban spaces to emphasize placemaking and community-centered design, we can create environments that support interaction, resilience, and a shared sense of identity.

Conclusion

The history of urban planning shows us how crucial design decisions are in shaping the way we live. While the mid-20th century’s car-centric approach disconnected communities, today’s focus on placemaking and human-centered design is bringing us back to our roots. Through thoughtful, community-focused design, we can restore human connections, creating spaces that not only meet practical needs but also enrich the human experience.

Let’s work together to build communities where people feel connected, inspired, and at home.