Space to flourish: wellbeing and the built environment

In public debates as well as in professional circles there is an increased emphasis on promoting health and wellbeing through the built environment. This goes hand in hand with a strong critique of how we have been planning and building our dwellings, work places, towns and cities in the past, particularly in the more recent past. Often the focus is on green spaces and the ability to exercise, on physical fitness and alleviating clinical conditions like obesity or heart disease. In addition questions are being asked of how the built environment can promote social and mental health and wellbeing. My talk explores and reflects on a number of approaches and initiatives regarding architecture and urban design which could - if taken seriously – will enrich our lives and contribute to our overall wellbeing.