Embracing Compact Urbanism: Why Smaller Spaces Reign Supreme

In the heart of urban development, there lies a concept that's both revolutionary and as old as the cities themselves: the allure of smaller spaces. These compact environments, far from being a compromise, represent a fundamental shift towards sustainable, vibrant urban life. Recently watching a video of Jan Gehl, a visionary in urban design, who profoundly stated, “We shape cities, and then they shape us.” This insight underscores the transformative power of thoughtfully designed small spaces in crafting cities that are not just habitable, but also humane and invigorating.

1. Fostering Community and Interaction Smaller spaces naturally foster a sense of community. The proximity encourages interaction and the formation of close-knit neighborhoods. Gehl’s principles of urban design prioritize 'life between buildings,' promoting spaces that encourage pedestrian activity and facilitate social interactions. This communal lifestyle, reminiscent of historic urban settlements, is vital in an era where isolation in sprawling metropolises is rampant.

2. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly The move towards smaller, more efficient spaces is also a nod to environmental sustainability. Compact living reduces the ecological footprint, leading to lesser energy consumption and waste production. As Gehl advocates, creating cities for people rather than cars not only enhances walkability but also significantly reduces urban sprawl and its environmental impact. Plus, we have two legs...

3. Enhancing Quality of Life Quality of life in an urban setting isn’t dictated by the grandeur of spaces, but by their functionality and the well-being they foster. Gehl’s urbanism emphasizes the human scale and sensory experience of city life. Smaller spaces, when thoughtfully designed, can be powerful catalysts for enhancing the urban experience, offering convenience, accessibility, and a vibrant street life.

4. Economic Efficiency From a financial perspective, smaller spaces can be a boon for urban economies. They require less material and energy to construct and maintain, translating into lower costs for residents and businesses alike. This economic efficiency can make city living more accessible to a wider demographic, fostering diversity and dynamism in urban centers. Often the smaller the restaurant or shop, the sooner they are able to cash flow their businesses.

Embracing smaller spaces is not a trend, but a timeless principle reasserted in modern urbanism. By prioritizing human-scale development and community-centric design, cities can become more than just places of transit and transaction; they can transform into crucibles of culture, connection, and shared experience.

In this journey towards compact urbanism, let us draw inspiration from Jan Gehl’s vision, crafting cities that truly cater to the human dimension, where every small space holds the potential to contribute to a larger, more vibrant urban tapestry.

-Edie Weintraub