A Feminist City

Redesigning urban spaces for inclusivity

Client:

Glasshouse Company

Project Date:

July 2023

My Role:

Creative Direction and Graphic Design

The "Feminist City" project aimed to address gender inequalities and create inclusive urban spaces. Research encompassed exploring public spaces and designing interventions for positive social connections. Primary research highlighted disparities in various environments, such as financial districts, high streets, and parks. Collaborating with a diverse team, we embarked on a journey of research, ideation, and collaboration to design interventions fostering safety, accessibility, and community in the urban landscape.

Project Summary

The project sought to disrupt gender-based inequalities ingrained in public spaces. Drawing inspiration from gender-responsive urban planning and design, we explored literature and the work of influential designers like Liz Ogbu and Janette Sadik-Khan. In-person meetings, context mapping, and primary research revealed challenges across different spaces, from financial districts with limited seating to high streets lacking accessibility. The need to empower women, mothers, and the community in public spaces became evident.

The Challenge/Problem

The project unfolded in stages, adapting to team dynamics and insights. From a concept of interactive beacons, we shifted towards innovative designs. We explored the potential of recycled clothing to create personalized draping materials that could be used for furniture. The concept of using clothing as a storytelling tool led to workshops that empowered participants to craft their own materials and build dispersed furniture in public areas. Collaboration, material experimentation, and leadership adjustments were integral to refining the design approach.

The Solution

The final outcome showcased a concept that resonated with Glass House. The use of clothing as a means of personalization and storytelling received positive feedback. While the project's scope had limitations, the concept demonstrated potential for larger-scale implementation. Through this project, I gained insights into co-design, teamwork, and the power of bottom-up approaches. The concept's success highlighted the importance of clear communication and interdisciplinary collaboration for creating impactful designs.

Results