Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates’ Post

It is vital for the long-term success of the places we design to create spaces that will grow and flourish alongside the community that use them. One project that has fulfilled this ambition is Moortown Park in #Leeds, which recently won the Public Realm and Landscape category at the #Leeds Architecture Awards 2023 (#LAA2023)   This video, produced by Addictive Media, captures how the transformation of this former corporate sports field (delivered on behalf of Leeds City Council following a community campaign led by Friends of Moortown Park) into a new seven-acre community green space, has had an incredible impact on people of all ages.   Early on in the design process, we recognised that this would need to be a space that could evolve and be shaped by the people who live here. With this in mind, we strengthened the existing woodlands and meadow habitats to offered the community even more opportunities to experience nature.    The sloping site created fantastic opportunities for play, offering a place for families to come together and giving children the freedom to explore the landscape in a safe space. New dog walking paths and play areas sit alongside a deep woodland corridor, meadows and a small wetland area.   The judges said: “This is an example of a well-designed (but not over-designed) flourishing and well-used urban park, which will only get better in future years.”   For us, the most rewarding part of this project is seeing the community take ownership of the park; local people and volunteers, led by Friends of Moortown park, now have a sense of stewardship and are working together to ensure #MoortownPark is constantly evolving, just as we’d envisaged. #Landscapearchitect #landscapearchitecture #publicpark #communitygreenspace #publicrealmdesign  

We know we need access to greenspace, and therefore value it. However, how we value nature is often subjective. Now we can quantify that value. Urban planners, landowners, landscape architects take note: new study shows parks and greenspace provide £282million worth of social benefits to communities! #greencities #naturebasedsolutions #socialdeterminantsofhealth #urbanplanning #climateresilience

Spotlight on Vogel Building Group: Fueling Lake County's Economic Growth Vogel Building Group (VBG) stands out in Lake County's economic landscape for their exceptional custom homes and their contribution to local development. Rooted in a family legacy that began in the 1950s, VBG combines tradition with innovation, creating not just homes but enduring legacies. Key Contributions to Lake County: Innovation in Design: VBG's commitment to blending traditional architecture with modern lifestyles brings a unique aesthetic to Lake County, enhancing its appeal as a place to live and invest. Community Focus: Specializing in the exclusive Bella Collina community, VBG contributes to Lake County's reputation as a premier destination for luxury living. Economic Investment: Through our public-private partnership, VBG plays a critical role in boosting Lake County's economy, providing jobs, and fostering sustainable community growth. VBG's Impact on Lake County: Quality Construction: VBG's hands-on approach assures top-tier quality in construction, elevating the standard of living and attracting new residents to the area. Local Expertise: With deep roots in the community, VBG's understanding of Lake County's needs ensures that each project aligns with the region's economic development goals. As VBG continues to build in Lake County, their investment in our community goes beyond construction. They are a vital partner in our journey towards a prosperous and vibrant Lake County. For detailed information on Vogel Building Group’s projects in Lake County, please visit: https://lnkd.in/e2x7eWn7 Rick Vogel #PublicPrivatePartnerships #thankyou #leadinglake #bellacollina #lakecounty

More plans to expand one of Cork's fastest-growing areas with 166 new homes and creche: Another estate for the fast-growing White's Cross area - and much-needed housing for Cork

More plans to expand one of Cork's fastest-growing areas with 166 new homes and creche: Another estate for the fast-growing White's Cross area - and much-needed housing for Cork

Historic buildings in Tipperary Town to be transformed under new project

The revitalization of the two buildings in the Cattleman Square Historic District presents an exciting opportunity for San Antonio's continued growth and transformation. This historic district, rich in culture and history, is poised to become a dynamic hub for the blending of heritage with modern development. As we observe this resurgence, several potential outcomes can be predicted: - **Cultural Preservation and Economic Growth**: This redevelopment offers a chance to preserve architectural heritage while stimulating local economies. Businesses moving into the renovated spaces can expect to benefit from an influx of residents and tourists, driving economic activity and creating jobs. - **Community Engagement and Increased Value**: The synergy between historical preservation and urban redevelopment provides a unique space for community engagement. Long-standing residents and new investors are likely to collaborate on projects that highlight this area's unique history, ultimately increasing property values. - **Tourism and Educational Opportunities**: Restoring these buildings can boost tourism, attracting visitors eager to explore the historical essence of Cattleman Square. Additionally, this location can serve as an educational resource, integrating historical narratives into school curriculums and public tours, thus preserving history for future generations. The impact of these developments will depend largely on: 1. **Effective Stakeholder Collaboration**: City planners, local businesses, and community organizations must work harmoniously to ensure redevelopment respects the historical integrity while addressing modern needs. 2. **Sustainable Practices**: Emphasizing sustainable renovation practices not only preserves the district’s charm but also promotes environmentally responsible development, essential for long-term viability. 3. **Inclusive Growth**: Ensuring that the benefits of this revitalization are felt across all community strata is crucial. Social programs and affordable housing within the district can help prevent displacement and inclusive growth. The restoration efforts in Cattleman Square Historic District symbolize a bridge between the past and future, where historical preservation fosters modern enterprise. As these buildings get a new lease on life, we should all keep an eye on this transformation, which stands as a testament to the potential of thoughtfully merging history with progress.

Historic buildings in Tipperary Town to be transformed under new project

Zero-carbon ready homes given the green light ✅     Persimmon Suffolk has received planning permission from East Suffolk Council for 305 new homes in Trelawny Place, #Felixstowe.   This second phase of the development and will see the majority of new builds being zero-carbon ready homes.   These new homes will further help East Suffolk Council to meet local housing needs by offering a combination of starter homes as well as larger family housing, with a mix of 1-5 bedroom homes available. 101 new homes will also be offered for affordable rent or shared ownership through a housing association partner.   This phase at Trelawny Place will offer a blend of traditional and contemporary designs alongside extensive landscaping, public open space and new play facilities.    As part of the development, over £2m will be invested towards highways improvements on local roads, public footpaths and local schools which will be of wider benefit to all residents leaving in Felixstowe. #PersimmonHomes #Newbuild #Development #sustainability #community

#TeamTaylors have secured Council endorsement of the Development Plan for a 3.3 ha commercial site at Bungower Road, Mornington. Located at the corner of Racecourse Road, this site is intended to be the future home of a variety of commercial facilities and services such as a medical centre, preschool and childcare centre. The Development Plan was produced and subsequently reviewed, modified and submitted to Council and after consultation and negotiation we were able to achieve a quality outcome for the client, council and community in what was a challenging site.   The project was contributed to by several teams at Taylors – Urban Design, Landscape Architecture, Engineering, and Planning – ably supported by a small team of specialist consultants (transport, biodiversity and arboriculture). The outcome involved various negotiations which saw the benefit of Taylors integrated services in the negotiation of road reserves, pedestrian and equestrian connectivity paths which achieved an improved commercial opportunity whilst at the same time delivering a positive urban design outcome.   The next step is to obtain a planning permit for the subdivision, which will be accompanied by a Section 173 Agreement for the delivery of various infrastructure works. #DevelopmentPlan #UrbanDesign #Planning #UrbanPlanning #LandscapeArchitecture #Engineering #CivilEngineering #Transport #Biodiversity #Aboriculture #Subdivision #Mornington #UrbanDevelopment #Expertise #Solutions #OneTeamOneTaylors