Placemaking is a process of creating and enhancing public spaces to improve the quality of life of people who use them. It involves a collaborative approach, where community members, designers, planners, and stakeholders work together to develop and implement a vision for a particular place.

In the European context, placemaking is seen as an important tool for creating vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable communities. It has gained significant attention in recent years as a way to revitalize urban areas, promote social cohesion, and support economic development.

Young people are a key group that can benefit from placemaking initiatives. Many European cities have recognized the importance of engaging young people in the design and development of public spaces. By involving young people in the placemaking process, they can gain a sense of ownership and pride in their communities, and develop valuable skills and experiences.

Moreover, placemaking can provide opportunities for young people to engage in civic life, express their creativity, and connect with others. For example, youth-led placemaking initiatives can include the creation of murals, community gardens, public art installations, and pop-up events.

Overall, placemaking in the European context is about creating public spaces that are not only functional but also engaging, inspiring, and reflective of the needs and aspirations of the community. By involving young people in this process, cities and communities can create more vibrant and sustainable places for all.

Jackson, M. (2019). The role of youth in urban placemaking. Cities & Health, 3(3), 278-284. https://doi.org/10.1080/23748834.2019.1651437

Project for Public Spaces Europe. (2021). What is placemaking? https://www.pps-europe.eu/what-is-placemaking/

European Commission. (2018). Placemaking and the future of Europe’s cities. https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/newsroom/cf/itemdetail.cfm?item_id=9906&lang=en&title=Placemaking-and-the-future-of-Europe%27s-cities