Despite the emergence of queer enclaves in many cities across the world, there is an urgent need to rethink public spaces so we can create more inclusive, welcoming and hospitable environments for all members of our communities.
Queering Public Space, a collaboration between Arup and the University of Westminster, explores the relationship between queer communities and public spaces. We ask: what are the key characteristics that contribute to queering public space? How do we protect what remains of queer memory in our cities? And how do we move beyond the gayborhood towards creating public spaces for all?
Through our approach we explore how LGBTQ+ people can feel safer and included in urban public spaces, to establish a set of recommendations that help address this deficiency.
By addressing these recommendations and designing in diversity, public spaces will be more accessible to all marginalised and disempowered groups, creating inclusive and welcoming spaces for all.
In addition to the report, we have presented some of the the report’s findings in a supporting video.