It is interesting that there was no mention of the most important aspect of settlement design (that encompass architecture and urban design) which is what foster a close knit community and what promotes individual and collective well being. It is obvious that isolated fenced islands of nuclear families in suburban blocks or multi storey units grid locked by roads that we fear to let our children out of the front gate an ideal situation. Without design that start from the premise that people's need for close social connection is important all else is moot. If nothing, what the COVID pandemic has taught us is that everyday face to face connection with people we love and trust is essential for our well being.
It is interesting that there was no mention of the most important aspect of settlement design (that encompass architecture and urban design) which is what foster a close knit community and what promotes individual and collective well being. It is obvious that isolated fenced islands of nuclear families in suburban blocks or multi storey units grid locked by roads that we fear to let our children out of the front gate an ideal situation. Without design that start from the premise that people's need for close social connection is important all else is moot. If nothing, what the COVID pandemic has taught us is that everyday face to face connection with people we love and trust is essential for our well being.