As an urban designer, I am often asked by clients, colleagues and friends to tell stories about Cities. Here's an interesting one, that I came across in The Straits Times, dated 31 July, 2010.
Its about Mediellin, second largest city in Colombia and its transformation from being the murder capital of the world to a bustling metropolis in less than a decade. Though the direct impact of police forces in curbing crime cannot be understated, urban planning, infrastructure development and revitalization strategies play a critical supporting role (they even lead from the front as in the case of Bilbao). Medellin has built new transportation networks, parks, libraries, museums and schools to uplilft its neighbourhoods. What stands out is the iconic character of Parque Biblioteca Espana which has helped create new opportunities for the low income community that surrounds it. The library that looks like giant boulders on the hills among the low rise surrounding houses creates a level field and encourages all citizens to learn and educate. The article states that "some kids wait in line for the library to open", which signifies the potential of good design and its contribution towards improving community lifestyle.
Sustainable Design ideas come in all shapes and sizes and in this case its contributions can be measures by the ques outside of the Parque Bibioteca Espana.
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