Hunter Design’s Post

Urban spaces are undergoing a remarkable transformation, and it’s truly fascinating to witness. As cities become more congested, we’re seeing a shift towards creating multi-functional spaces that cater to diverse needs—whether it’s living, working, or socializing. One of the most exciting developments is the integration of green spaces into urban environments. The concept of ‘vertical forests’ is really taking off, where buildings are designed with plant-covered facades that do more than just look good—they actively contribute to the environment by improving air quality and reducing urban heat islands. These vertical gardens bring a bit of nature back into the concrete jungle, making our cities not only more beautiful but also more livable. It’s a smart, forward-thinking way to address both environmental and social challenges in our cities. As we continue to reimagine urban spaces, the focus is increasingly on creating environments that are as beneficial for the planet as they are for the people who live in them. #UrbanSpaces #Transitions #Transformation #Development #Entrepreneur

I think we can all agree that every good strategy encompasses the key elements by which a project will ultimately be measured. That’s why Scott Higgins and I believe that the great cities of the future, and great city-building projects, will be measured on societal metrics.   What does that mean exactly? It means how a city: ✅ publicly acts like a community. ✅ connects citizens and makes them feel they belong. ✅ celebrates their uniqueness and defines their identity. ✅ fosters trust and compassion among their citizens.   The key to achieving these different outcomes is a different starting point.   That’s why future city-building strategies must first define their vision within this same societal context. A powerful societal vision, coupled with a new design process, gives cities everything they need to create something new.   I’ve been working on this new design process and will be sharing more in the coming weeks. In the meantime, I can say that it features 12 concepts (“JOY Principles”) that help lead people through an exploration of new contexts, objectives, and measurements for city building.   The Principles are discussed in The JOY Experiments so if you’d like to get a head start, you can pre-order a copy of my book at the link in bio. #citybuilding #urbandesign #urbandevelopment #urbanplanning #joyfulcities #joyexperiments

🚸HAPPY TRANSPORTATION TUESDAY🚸 Today's Topic: 15-Minute Cities What is the theory of 15-Minute Cities? This urban planning concept is that all necessities and services are easily reached by a 15-minute walk, bike ride, or public transit ride from any point in the city. This includes things such as work, shopping, schools, hospitals, and entertainment. The idea is to reduce the need for cars and promote more healthy and sustainable lifestyles. What would Tri-Cities look like if it implemented this design concept? Sources: https://lnkd.in/gwmnSyPm and https://lnkd.in/gS-JC6bi

Embracing nature in our built environments isn't just a visionary idea – it's a smart financial move! Numerous scientific studies have quantified the impact of nature-based experiences on productivity, preferences, and well-being, making a clear argument for its economic value. Here are just a few examples: Productivity Boost: Global Human Spaces Report reported that employees working in environments enriched with nature reported a 15% higher level of well-being than those who work in environments devoid of nature. Enhanced Preferences: Studies conducted by environmental psychologists have consistently demonstrated that individuals exhibit a strong preference for natural environments over built ones. This preference extends to various settings, including residential areas, workplaces, and recreational spaces. Value: Real estate developers can leverage this preference by incorporating green spaces and natural elements into their designs, thereby increasing property values and market appeal. Improved Well-being: Access to green spaces, parks, and natural landscapes has been linked to reduced stress, improved mood, and enhanced cognitive function. By prioritizing the integration of nature into urban planning and architecture, communities can promote healthier lifestyles and reduce healthcare costs associated with stress-related illnesses. By embracing nature in our built environments, not only do we create more aesthetically pleasing and sustainable spaces, but we also generate tangible economic benefits. From increased productivity and property values to improved well-being and reduced healthcare expenses, the incorporation of natural elements proves to be a wise investment with long-term returns. Let's build a future where nature and urban living coexist harmoniously for the prosperity of both people and the planet. 🌍💚 #krydsfelt #NatureInUrbanDesign #EconomicValueOfNature #SustainableDevelopment

I have a vision for the next hundred years, and it's one that reimagines our urban landscapes into thriving, sustainable, and community-centric hubs. The future of real estate is about creating ecosystems where every aspect of daily life is enhanced and interconnected. Our builds are made of steel, concrete, and glass — no wood — ensuring durability and longevity for a century. Imagine living in a place where everything you need is just a 10-15 minute walk away. Your morning could start with a stroll to a nearby café, followed by a productive session in a co-working space that's just around the corner. Wellness and relaxation wouldn’t be a second thought, with accessible spas and biohacking centers designed to rejuvenate both mind and body. Local artisans, designers, and entrepreneurs will have spaces to showcase their products, encouraging a culture of support for local businesses and unique, handcrafted goods. And if you need to go for a drive? Community Teslas. Shared electric vehicles available for all residents, reducing our carbon footprint and fostering a sense of community ownership and responsibility. This vision is a commitment to creating spaces where technology, sustainability, and community wellness are in perfect harmony. I am dedicated to building not just for our generation, but for the generations to come, ensuring that the future of urban living is vibrant, inclusive, and environmentally responsible. What are your thoughts on this vision for the future of real estate? Can you picture yourself thriving in such an urban hub? #FutureOfRealEstate #SustainableLiving #UrbanInnovation #CommunityLiving #GreenCities #WalkableCities #RealEstateVision

Check out our latest research conducted via our Gensler #CityPulse survey that highlights 4 major drivers of city success versus urban migration. We talk a lot about the benefits of the #20minutecity, and the latest findings underscore those benefits: people want #authenticity, #opportunity, #affordability, #comfort and #safety. #resilience #wellness #wellnessdesign #resilientdesign #sustainablecommunities #sustainability #madelocal #localflavor

The Health Innovation Neighbourhood in #Newcastle represents far more than a regeneration project; it embodies years of innovation, collaboration, and a team’s unique understanding of how public realm and nature can be leveraged to improve health, restore the planet’s equilibrium, and, most significantly, support a thriving ageing population. At its core, it's a landscape-led masterplan designed to re-establish the community's relationship with green spaces and nature, fostering connectivity and well-being for all residents. The seamless integration of active travel infrastructure, urban agriculture initiatives, sports facilities, community parklands, and green and brown roofs forms an intricate network of green spaces. This network is purposefully designed to foster community engagement and enhance resilience to climate change by harnessing nature's systems. The result is a vibrant, flourishing ecosystem that not only sustains itself but also enriches the surrounding environment, giving back more than it takes. This ambitious project has only been achieved by the vision and determination of the client team and the wider consultant team; Newcastle University, Genr8 Kajima Regeneration, GSSArchitecture, S h e d, Biodiverse Consulting Ltd, Max Fordham LLP, Pegasus Group and Mosodi.   And a big thank you to the wider Gillespies team and all their involvement big and small; Adam Greatrix, Katie Hodgson, Carolina Bustamante Herrera, Warren Chapman, Scarlett Towse, Katie Hammond, Eve Davies, and Hillary Barber. #healthinnovationneighbourhood #multigenerationaldesign #climateresilientdesign

🏙 In today’s fast-paced world, are we losing the true essence of urban living? As cities continue to develop at breakneck speed, I’ve found myself increasingly passionate about the need to retain what really matters: a sense of community. Urban spaces shouldn’t just be about flashy developments and commercial success. They should be places where people come together, where local businesses thrive, and where there’s a true sense of belonging - a place people genuinely love to be #urbanliving. Helping creating these spaces has become my true interest. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about fostering environments that strike the perfect balance between progress and people, where the pace of modern life doesn’t overshadow the importance of connection and community spirit. We need to shift our focus back to #placemaking - designing urban areas that encourage human interaction, creativity, and sustainability.

Join us for our next #UrbanLunchTalk and listen to experiences of the repurposing of spaces in neighbourhoods. Three contributors to a recent DUT publication, 'Towards Regenerative Neighbourhoods: European Cases, Insights and Initiatives' will discuss questions such as 🔹 How can buildings be repurposed to facilitate circular economy? 🔹 What activities could make communities connect in public spaces? 🔹 What are key factors to change use of spaces in neighbourhoods? Register here: https://lnkd.in/d7a6cN3y 📅 17 June ⏰ 12:00-13:00 (CET) 📍 Online (Zoom) #UrbanLunchTalks #CircularEconomy #Placemaking #Neighbourhoods #Urbanplanning #DUTPartnership

Final Thoughts & Community Engagement 🔍 The Future of Living: A Call to Action for Thought Leaders 🏡 As we explore the future of living spaces, it's essential to consider how these trends will impact communities, businesses, and individuals alike. The shift towards tiny houses, modular designs, and sustainable living reflects a collective desire for a more efficient, eco-conscious future. 🤝 Join the Conversation: ▪ Engage with Your Community: Share your thoughts on how these trends can shape the future of living in your area. What innovations are you seeing? How can we support sustainable practices in housing? ▪ Collaborate for Change: Encourage businesses and local governments to consider the implications of these trends. What policies or initiatives can promote sustainable housing development? ▪ Embrace New Lifestyles: Consider how you can adapt to these changes in your own life. Are there elements of tiny living or modular design that you can incorporate into your space? Together, we can pave the way for a sustainable, innovative future in housing. Share your insights and let’s collaborate for positive change! #FutureOfLiving #SustainableHousing #CommunityEngagement #Innovation #LifestyleTrends #HousingDevelopment