Socially Sustainable Neighbourhood Design for Children and Youth

Socially Sustainable Neighbourhood Design for Children and Youth explores social sustainability in neighbourhood design, with a particular focus on providing practical design recommendations to improve the lives of children and youth. This book provides insights from research, as well as practical, actionable design principles and strategies to create inclusive, child-and youth-friendly environments that foster social connections and community engagement.

The book strongly emphasises how vibrant, engaged communities are linked to equity and long-term social and environmental sustainability. It explores how children and youth perceive social sustainability and the behaviour settings that support it. It outlines design principles and recommendations useful for creating spaces that prioritise their wellbeing and development, both as individuals and as community members. By addressing the unique needs and perspectives of young people, the book empowers urban professionals to develop neighbourhoods that are socially sustainable, inclusive, and resilient. It also touches on important topics like decolonisation, post-colonialism in design, co-design principles, and democratic design approaches and evaluates how current urban planning practices impact the design of spaces for young people.

This book is an essential resource for urban planners, designers, architects, and landscape professionals who are committed to designing neighbourhoods that foster social connection, inclusivity, and sustainable community life – especially through meaningful children and youth engagement.