Placemaking practices in Germany involve various stakeholders collaborating to transform public spaces into livable, attractive, and sustainable places. The approach emphasizes community involvement and the creation of unique spaces that meet the needs of residents and visitors. Youth are often included in these practices through engagement strategies such as youth councils, participatory design workshops, and community events that showcase young people’s talents and contributions.

One example of placemaking in Germany is the “Aktive Zentren” program, which aims to revitalize city centers and promote economic development through public space improvement projects. The program involves collaboration between local governments, businesses, and community groups to identify areas for improvement and develop strategies for transforming them into vibrant, pedestrian-friendly spaces. In one project, youth were involved in the design of a skate park in Essen, with the municipality collaborating with local youth to create a unique space that meets their needs and preferences (Wuppertal Institut, 2018).

Another example of youth involvement in placemaking practices is the “StadtMacher” program, which empowers young people to participate in urban planning processes and decision-making. The program involves a series of workshops and training sessions that teach youth about urban planning, design, and community engagement, culminating in a youth-led project to improve a public space in their neighborhood. The program has been successful in promoting youth participation and fostering a sense of ownership and belonging among young people in their communities (Lemgoer Stadtmarketing GmbH, n.d.).

Overall, placemaking practices in Germany emphasize collaboration, community involvement, and creativity in transforming public spaces into livable and sustainable places. Youth are often included in these practices through engagement strategies that promote their participation and input in the design and development of public spaces.

References:

Lemgoer Stadtmarketing GmbH. (n.d.). StadtMacher – Junge Menschen gestalten ihre Stadt. Retrieved from https://www.lemgo-marketing.de/projekte/stadtmacher-junge-menschen-gestalten-ihre-stadt/

Wuppertal Institut. (2018). Aktive Zentren – Handlungskonzepte für Stadt- und Ortsteilzentren. Retrieved from https://wupperinst.org/p/wi/p/s/pd/33/