Happy Cities

@happycities.com

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We build happier, healthier, more inclusive communities. Focus: learning + solutions around cities, wellbeing, & social trust. Let's chat: info@happycities.com

Photo showing the living room of a home with a couch, coffee table, house plants and a dining table. Four pink dialogue bubbles are overlaid pointing out design elements of the space; 1) Ground-level entrance facing a courtyard, 2) Natural lighting and cross-ventilation, 3) Private-public transition, and 4) Flexible space that can evolve over time to meet changing needs. Text on a light pink background reads: “Design toolbox for for social homes: Explore the Building social connections toolkit”
A community amenity room with a book shelf, children playing at a ping pong table, a group of adults sitting at a long table, and two adults sitting on a couch. Four purple dialogue bubbles are overlaid pointing out design elements of the space; 1) Flexible space that can accommodate different uses, 2) Connection to outdoor amenity space, 3) Shared storage space, 4) Activities for all ages and abilities. Text on a light purple background reads: “Design toolbox for social indoor amenity spaces: Explore the Building social connections toolkit"
View of a community laundry room, office space, and living room with a green sofa and coffee table. Four purple dialogue bubbles are overlaid pointing out design elements of the space; 1) Connected to other activities, 2) Views into other community spaces, 3) Flexible access hours, and 4) Comfortable seating area near laundry room. Text on a light purple background reads: “Design toolbox for social laundry rooms: Explore the Building social connections toolkit”
A building lobby that includes a communal space, furniture, mailboxes, and a community library. Four orange dialogue bubbles are overlaid pointing out design elements of the space; 1) Connected to community amenities, 2) Connected to the main entrance, 3) Community hub with a library, comfy chairs, fireplace, 4) Neighbours personalize the space with art & furniture, and 5) Mailboxes, recycling, and shared board games Text on a light orange background reads: “Design toolbox for social lobbies: Explore the Building social connections toolkit”
Graphic with a photo of an apartment building overlooking a grassy park, where people of all ages gather and play. Text reads: Building social connections: Designing multi-unit housing for social well-being. January 15, 2025 @12-1pm PT
Photo of the front of a building that includes a communal space, benches, and trees. Four blue dialogue bubbles are overlaid pointing out design elements of the space; 1) Sheltered entrance that is easy to find, 2) Gathering spaces next to main entrances, 3) Spaces to pause, or have a chat with a neighbour, and 4) Plants and furniture near entrance. Text with an arrow on a light blue background that reads: “Toolbox for social entrances: Explore the Building social connections toolkit”
A photo of a social nook in front of an elevator with women and children reading books. Four orange dialogue bubbles are overlaid pointing out design elements of the space; 1) Wide open spaces with natural light, 2) Neighbours personalize the space with art and furniture, 3) Nooks placed next to elevators and stairs, and 4) Comfy space to pause and read a book. Text with an arrow on a light red background reads: “Design toolbox for social hallways: Explore the Building social connections toolkit”
An image of the front of a building with private balconies overlooking a street. Four pink dialogue bubbles are overlaid pointing out design elements of the space; 1) Sense of privacy, 2) Connection with neighbours and the street, 3) Extension of the home’s living space, and 4) Spaces to grow plants and engage with nature. Text with a pink arrow on a light pink background that reads: “Design toolbox for social balconies: Explore the Building social connections toolkit”
The view of a courtyard that includes a play space, chairs and tables, a community garden and entrances to the building. Five purple dialogue bubbles are overlaid pointing out design elements of the space; 1) Views into the courtyard from private homes, 2) Direct access to the communal laundry room, 3) Indoor-outdoor connection to the courtyard, 4) Informal play area with public art, and 5) Accessible community gardens Text with a purple arrow on a light purple background that reads: “Design toolbox for social courtyards? Explore the Building social connections toolkit "
The view of a bicycle room from a building lobby, which includes a mailbox and elevator. Five purple dialogue bubbles are overlaid pointing out design elements of the space; 1) Secure long-term bike parking, 2) Connected to other social spaces, 3) Bicycle repair station, 4) No-lift bicycle parking spaces, and 5) Easy to access from ground level. Text with a purple arrow on a light purple background reads: “Design toolbox for social bicycle spaces. Explore the Building social connections toolkit”