Symposium: a women-friendly public realm
Design principles for a public realm where everyone feels safe and welcome
22 October – Predikheren, Mechelen
Symposium: a women-friendly public realm
How safe does a street, square or park feel when you are walking through it alone? And what changes when we explicitly approach its design from a women-centred perspective?
At this symposium, we will launch the Women-Friendly Design Toolbox. We will share the key insights from our research with nine Belgian and Dutch cities and translate them into practical design principles for a safer and more inclusive public realm.
Why does this matter?
The way we design our public realm affects who feels safe, welcome and free to move around. Lighting, sightlines, the quality of places to spend time and the presence of other people all play an important role.
During the symposium, you will discover how looking at the public realm through a women-centred lens can reveal new insights into the design of streets, squares, parks and other public places.
- Discover the key findings from research conducted by Witteveen+Bos together with nine cities.
- Explore the Women-Friendly Design Toolbox and the design principles that emerged from the research.
- Hear practical experiences and exchange ideas with professionals working in the field.
- Gain inspiration to look at safety and inclusion differently in your own projects.
Programme
14:00–14:15 Welcome
14:15–14:45 Inspiring guest speaker
14:45–15:15 Launch and introduction to the Women-Friendly Design Toolbox
15:15–15:30 Break
15:30–16:15 Panel discussion
16:15–17:00 Drinks and networking
Practical information
- When? Thursday 22 October, 2 a.m. - 5 a.m.
- Where? Predikheren, Mechelen
- Participation fee? Attendance is free, but places are limited.
“Join us, ask your questions and discover how a different perspective on the public realm can lead to better design choices.”
