The Urbanist’s Lens

The Urbanist’s Lens

By The Urbanist's LensEducation
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The Urbanist’s Lens episodes

  • What Makes a City Walkable?

    In this episode of The Urbanist’s Lens, hosts Drew and Andrea explore the concept of walkable cities and their significance in urban design. They discuss essential design features that make a city pedestrian-friendly, such as mixed-use development, connected street networks, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, accessible public transportation, and the integration of green spaces. Through engaging dialogue and real-world examples, Drew and Andrea illustrate how these elements contribute to vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive urban environments. Whether you're an urban planning professional or simply curious about city design, this episode offers valuable insights into creating spaces that prioritize people over vehicles.

      References and Resources:

      Walkable City: How Downtown Can Save America, One Step at a Time by Jeff Speck

      The Death and Life of Great American Cities by Jane Jacobs

      Walkability and Urban Policy: A Conversation with Jeff Speck" – Georgetown Public Policy Review

      Jeff Speck: An Urban Planner's Approach to Designing Walkable, 15-Minute Cities" – NPR

      Good Roads Podcast Episode 31 - Walkable Cities with Jeff Speck


      The Urbanist’s Lens is written and produced by Andro Madrogaba

      25 min
    • What is Urban Design?

      For the first episode of The Urbanist’s Lens, our hosts, Drew and Andrea, dive into the foundational question: What is Urban Design and What is Good Urban Design? They explore the core principles that shape our cities, towns, and public spaces, breaking down what makes urban design not only functional but also engaging, sustainable, and people-centered. Through thoughtful discussion and real-world examples, Drew and Andrea unpack how urban design influences the way we live, move, and connect within our communities. Whether you're an urban planning professional or just curious about how cities work, this episode offers fresh insights into the art and science of creating better urban spaces.


      Show Notes:
      The Urbanist’s Lens is produced by Andro Madrogaba

      6 min

    About The Urbanist’s Lens

    From the publisher's feed

    The Urbanist’s Lens takes you on a deep dive into the world of urban design and planning — exploring how cities are shaped, who they serve, and how they can be reimagined for a more sustainable and inclusive future. Each episode unpacks the layers of the built environment, from streetscapes and public spaces to zoning laws and urban policies, through the eyes of planners, architects, designers, and community leaders.