Urban Planning Vs Urban Design: What’s The Difference?
Date published 17 July 2024
When building new suburban areas or working to improve current areas, urban planning and urban design are two important concepts that come into consideration. Urban planning and urban design although interconnected, are unique terms. Understanding the difference between urban planning and urban design is crucial for councils, architects and developers who are tasked with creating sustainable and inclusive urban spaces.
What is Urban Planning?
Urban planning is the strategic process of organising and regulating the use of land and resources in a city. It involves long-term thinking about the physical form, economic function and social aspects of urban areas. It is an urban planner’s job to focus on broader aspects such as zoning laws, land use policies, transport and the environmental impacts of these areas. The goal is to ensure that cities grow in a way that is sustainable, efficient and equitable.
For example, when a city council decides to expand a public park, urban planners need to assess how these changes will affect traffic flow, housing prices and the local ecosystem. This could also include planning for necessary infrastructure, like new bike paths or bus routes, to ensure accessibility.
At Urban Effects, we understand the importance and challenges of urban planning which is why we try to make it easier by offering a range of products that are designed around cost-efficiency and sustainability. Just some of these products include a wide range of modern public litter bins, bike racks, planters, and tree protectors. These products assist in keeping the areas sustainable and protecting the natural pre-existing area.
What is Urban Design?
Urban design, on the other hand, is more focused on the physical and visual aspects of urban spaces. It deals with the design and organisation of buildings, public spaces and landscapes to create visually appealing and functional environments. Urban designers think at a more personal human level, considering how people interact with their environment day-to-day.
When designing a CBD, urban designers consider elements such as walkability, lighting, public seating and green spaces. The aim is to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also encourage social interaction and community engagement.
Urban Effects sells various solutions that support urban design initiatives. Our modern street furniture collection, wide selection of comfortable outdoor seating, commercial BBQs, outdoor table settings and shelters that can help transform any public space into a welcoming environment. These elements help create cohesive and inviting urban areas that people love to visit, linger and use.
Integrating Urban Planning and Urban Design
For cities and suburban areas to thrive, urban planning and urban design must work hand in hand. Successful urban projects seamlessly blend strategic planning with thoughtful design to create cohesive urban environments.
Consider a city council planning to transform a local area. Urban planners would first assess the area’s needs, considering factors like traffic congestion, housing demand and economic development. This would include developing a comprehensive plan addressing these issues, perhaps by proposing mixed-use developments, improved public transit and green spaces.
Urban designers would then step in to transform these plans into tangible designs. Focusing on the finer details, such as the layout of streets and footpaths, the design of shopping centres and the integration of street furniture and landscaping, is an important part of this.
Understanding the distinction between urban planning and urban design is essential for creating functioning and sustainable cities. While urban planning provides the strategic framework for city growth, urban design brings these plans to life through detailed and thoughtful design. Together, they play a crucial role in shaping the urban environments where we live, work and play.
For councils and private organisations involved in urban development, partnering with experts in both fields is key to achieving successful outcomes. At Urban Effects, we offer a wide range of outdoor furniture and amenities that support sustainable urban planning and urban design.
Urban Effects believes in working together to create urban environments that are not only functional but also engaging and enjoyable for everyone. If you’re looking to learn more about how we can work together, download our handy design guide in creating Places for People or contact one of our friendly team members today!