MISSION
The Design Center advocates for the value of good design, planning and public policy to support more livable and sustainable communities in the Pittsburgh region.
VISION
The Design Center envisions a region where design is accessible, valued and celebrated throughout diverse and connected communities.
The Problem With Calling Cities ‘Post-Industrial’
by Emily Badger – The Atlantic Cities
What are the issues with categorizing cities as ‘Post-Industrial?’ Emily Badger discusses how this categorization can impede on a city’s ability to develop for the future, and how formerly industrial cities such as Pittsburgh still have many components that bear relevance in today’s urban scope. Link to full story.
How Diverse Schools could Help Fight the Worst Effects of Gentrification
by Emily Badger – The Atlantic Cities
Segregated schools are an enduring problem in urban America. But with young affluent (often white) professionals flocking to cities, and enrolling their children in public schools, a historic opportunity exists to create diverse schools. Emily Badger examines how smart school placement policies could help improve educational outcomes for low-income and minority students in America’s cities, and facilitate the integration of entire neighborhoods. Link to full story.
A Village for Those in Need
by John Morris Dixon, FAIA - Architect Magazine
One way to combat social issues is through socially responsible architecture and planning. Davids Killory Architecture designed a development for needy Escondido, CA residents, identified as “Housing for Homeless Mothers and Children.” Read about their accommodating design for less fortunate mothers & their children. Link to full story.
by Alex Dodds – Smart Growth America
Communities across the country are making roads safer and more accessible for everyone who uses them, and more communities are using these strategies now than ever before.
The Best Complete Streets Policies of 2012 examines all the Complete Streets policies passed in the last year and highlights some of the best. The analysis also revealed that the Complete Streets movement grew in 2012, continuing a national trend since 2005. Link to full story.