Placemaking practices in Greece prioritize community involvement and collaboration to create attractive and sustainable public spaces that reflect the local context and cultural heritage. The approach emphasizes inclusivity, participatory design, and the use of innovative technologies to enhance the quality of public spaces. Youth are often included in these practices through participatory design workshops, youth councils, and community events that provide opportunities for young people to voice their opinions and contribute to the planning and design process.

One example of placemaking in Greece is the “Athens Play Project,” which involves the creation of a network of public spaces for children and youth in Athens. The project involves collaboration between local governments, community groups, and design professionals to create new public spaces that prioritize ecological sustainability, community involvement, and cultural heritage. Youth are involved in the project through various engagement strategies, including youth councils, public art installations, and community events that showcase young people’s talents and contributions to the development of public spaces (Athens Play Project, n.d.).

Another example of youth involvement in placemaking practices is the “Youth Active Participation” 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 (Greek Ministry of Education, Research and Religious Affairs, 2016).

Overall, placemaking practices in Greece prioritize community involvement, sustainability, and cultural heritage in creating attractive and livable public spaces. 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:

Athens Play Project. (n.d.). Athens Play Project. Retrieved from http://athensplayproject.com/

Greek Ministry of Education, Research and Religious Affairs. (2016). Youth Active Participation. Retrieved from https://www.minedu.gov.gr/sch_techniki_esv_en/epiteugmata/draseis_sch/2016_11_14_peraia_fthiotidas_yap_en.pdf