Cities & Urban Design

General master planning is rapidly evolving toward specialized city design that can meet blended work-life demands.

Urban centers today require a unique and specialized approach to meet the demands of 21st Century living, marking the end of generalist master plans. Urban planners and designers should consider more mixed-use, flexible approaches that integrate living, working, and leisure into every district and development to cater to the varied needs of urban dwellers.

Demand for affordable housing will be met through strategic partnerships with non-profit developers.

To overcome the regulatory and economic barriers that often face affordable housing, urban designers can leverage partnerships with non-profit, mission-driven developers who can progress projects more quickly and at lower cost. As the focus turns to more social-based developments, harnessing the right partners including developers, housing authorities, and non-profits will be imperative.

Investment in adaptation strategies will continue to increase the profitability and desirability of urban real estate.

Adapting to the impacts of climate change through measures such as urban green cover, resilient public spaces, and equitable design can mitigate the impact of climate change in the built environment. Local governments and city planners have an opportunity to demonstrate the long-term return on investment and incentivize sustainable and resilient development through tax benefits.