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509. Placemaking and public spaces Then & Now: A Conversation with Steve Davies

Mar 30, 2025

40:53

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In this episode, I sit down with Steve Davies, a pioneering figure in placemaking and urban development. As Principal of Place Solutions Group, Affiliate at Market Cities (PPS), and President of The Placemaking Fund, Steve has spent decades shaping public spaces worldwide.

We reflect on his journey in Project for Public Spaces (PPS)—what challenges he faced, how the placemaking movement evolved, and the biggest shifts in how cities approach public space today.

We also discuss:

How to measure a successful public place
Key leadership skills for impactful placemaking
The future of placemaking—emerging trends and innovations
Steve’s current projects and what’s next for him in 2025

Plus, we explore how PPS has evolved over the years and what lessons can be learned for the future.

Tune in for an insightful discussion with one of the field’s leading voices! 🎧

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Keep Up the Good Work. Keep Loving Cities ❤️️

All opinions expressed in each episode are personal to the guest and do not represent the Host of Urbanistica Podcast unless otherwise stated.

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Thanks to Urbanistica Podcast partner AFRY (Urban Planning and Design)

AFRY is an international engineering and design company providing sustainable solutions in the fields of energy, industry, and infrastructure.