Density is a hotly debated topic in urban centres. Is it good? Is it bad? Does it make us more isolated, more lonely, or can it improve our happiness?

Helen Lui speaks with Houssam Elokda, from Happy Cities. Their research explores the connection between urban design and happiness, striving to enhance the quality of life in cities through sustainable long-term happiness. By prioritizing people's experiences and emotions, they aim to implement urban interventions that are not only impactful but also tailored to the unique needs and values of each community.

Houssam delves into the significance of studying the relationship between happiness and urban design to determine the crucial elements for thriving in urban environments. An insightful study discussed in the podcast reveals that density does not necessarily correlate with lower happiness or well-being once income is taken into account. The conversation sheds light on how different housing forms like apartments or single-family homes have no significant impact on well-being when income is factored in.

References:

• The World Happiness Report: https://worldhappiness.report/about/
• Lu’ma housing - Heatherlands project: https://www.vancouverisawesome.com/courier-archive/news/temporary-modular-housing-approved-for-heather-lands-site-3082546#google_vignette
• VGH + Happy Cities study: My Wellbeing, My Community: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/65c7e5d8ed8ae44c1709ae60/t/65f9ba97331b333639689619/1710865062869/My-home-my-neighbourhood-wellbeing-study-111723.pdf
• 5 D’s of walkability: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/359066510_Rethinking_walkability_and_developing_a_conceptual_definition_of_active_living_environments_to_guide_research_and_practice

Show Credits:
Host: Helen Lui
Producer: Aaron Johnson
Cover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)
Covert Art Titles: Spencer
Website: UrbanismVancouver.com

If you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Helen Lui speaks with Mark Boardman and Alyssa Sacal from Minivillage, a Vancouver-based company fostering social connections within neighbourhoods. Mark discusses transforming neighbours into friends, while Alyssa emphasizes combating loneliness. The conversation explores authentic community bonds, the impact of physical environments on social connections, and practical tips for fostering relationships. Mark and Alyssa advocate for intentional community-building efforts and envision a future with healthier, happier, and more interconnected communities.

References:

• The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community
• Dunbar's number
• Robert Waldinger's Ted Talk
• Why Are We So Lonely, by Vox
• 40% of Canadians feel lonely all or some of the time
• The Säg hej! (say hello!) campaign, Luleå, Sweden
• Research organizations mentioned during the podcast: Happy Cities, Hey Neighbour Collective, Tamarack Institute, Genwell Project
• Netflix, Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones

Show Credits:
Host: Helen Lui
Producer: Aaron Johnson
Cover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)
Covert Art Titles: Spencer
Website: UrbanismVancouver.com

If you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Helen Lui is joined by architects Amit Price Patel and Jill Robertson from DIALOG, to discuss the design of great public spaces. They share insights on the political power of design, the intersection of science and art in shaping communities, and the significance of community engagement in creating inclusive spaces. The conversation emphasizes inclusivity, considering diverse perspectives, and the importance of moving at the speed of trust when engaging with communities. Amit and Jill highlight the impact of inclusive design on community well-being, stressing the role of public spaces in fostering connections and shared experiences.

Show Credits:
Host: Helen Lui
Producer: Aaron Johnson
Cover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)
Covert Art Titles: Spencer
Website: UrbanismVancouver.com

If you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Helen Lui is joined by Urban Sketch Artist Nishant Jain, also known as "the Sneaky Artist" to discuss the concept of 'Third Spaces'—the places between home and work where social bonds are forged and community enriched. We explore how these spaces, from parks to cafes, are not just physical locations but also platforms for cultural expression and social interaction. We also discuss the transformation of third spaces and their role in shaping modern urban life.

Show Credits:
Host: Helen Lui
Producer: Aaron Johnson
Cover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)
Covert Art Titles: Spencer
Website: UrbanismVancouver.com

If you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Reece Martin from the YouTube channel RMTransit joins Helen Lui to discuss the evolving landscape of urban mobility and public transit. Explore the cutting-edge developments and innovative solutions that are shaping the future of our cities. Reece, who grew up in the Lower Mainland, and now a resident of Toronto, shares his expert insights on the challenges urban planners face and the potential transformative impacts of new technologies on public transportation systems.

RM Transit: https://www.youtube.com/@RMTransit
Movement: https://transitmovement.ca/

Show Credits:
Host: Helen Lui
Producer: Aaron Johnson
Cover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)
Covert Art Titles: Spencer
Website: UrbanismVancouver.com

If you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Helen Lui explores the critical need for safer, more sustainable urban transportation with Lucy Maloney, a fervent cycling advocate who leads the organization "Love The Lane" and is also a HUB Cycling member. Lucy discusses the ongoing efforts to promote safer streets in Vancouver, addressing the broader challenges of shifting public policy. She highlights the changes in infrastructure that can significantly reduce preventable risks and enhance urban living, and discusses opportunities to encourage more active transportation.

Show Credits:
Host: Helen Lui
Producer: Aaron Johnson
Cover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)
Covert Art Titles: Spencer
Website: UrbanismVancouver.com

If you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Helen Lui discusses the interconnectedness of urban development, climate initiatives, and public safety with guest, environmental scientist Rhiannon Fox. Highlighting the benefits of dense, less car-dependent cities, the discussion emphasizes community involvement and personal action as catalysts for change. Rhiannon shares how individual efforts can influence broader societal shifts towards sustainable living and safer, more inclusive urban environments.

Show Credits:
Host: Helen Lui
Producer: Aaron Johnson
Cover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)
Covert Art Titles: Spencer
Website: UrbanismVancouver.com

If you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver

Host Helen Lui welcomes Ravi Kahlon, MLA for North Delta and British Columbia’s Housing Minister, to discuss transformative approaches to the housing crisis. Minister Kallon shares his political journey and the personal experiences fueling his commitment to driving positive change. They delve into the shift towards embracing density, the introduction of innovative policies under Kahlon's leadership, and the vision for more liveable, equitable, and sustainable cities.

References: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/housing/

Show Credits:
Host: Helen Lui
Producer: Aaron Johnson
Cover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)
Covert Art Titles: Spencer
Website: UrbanismVancouver.com

If you want to support the podcast, you can "Buy Us A Coffee"
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/urbanismvancouver