The Barcelona Model: Public Space as a Synonym for Urban Adaptation
Diversity, Inclusion & Equity Engagement Parks & Public Space Smart CitiesSummary
The “Barcelona Model '' is a strategy that reclaims and transforms public streets and squares into spaces of comfort that allow for a variety of uses and integrate nature into a dense and urbanized city. In compact cities that have a lot of paved areas, like Barcelona, building large new parks is difficult. However, the model adapts to the built city by transforming small-scale public places to address contemporary needs. For example, projects using the model have spaces that restrict vehicular use, add trees and greenery to the urban fabric, and have increased permeability to create meeting spaces, increase pedestrian spaces, and provide shade and cool places in response to climate change. These projects can also include public facilities to create small urban centralities.