Placemaking practices in Italy prioritize collaboration between different stakeholders to create attractive and sustainable public spaces that reflect the local context and cultural heritage. The approach emphasizes community involvement, inclusivity, and design principles that prioritize the needs and preferences of local residents. 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 Italy is the “Bologna Urban Center” project, which involves the creation of a collaborative platform that connects citizens, urban planners, and other stakeholders to develop and implement urban regeneration projects in Bologna. The project involves a range of participatory design workshops, public events, and community consultations that aim to involve young people in the development of public spaces that reflect their needs and preferences (Bologna Urban Center, n.d.).

Another example of youth involvement in placemaking practices is the “Young Planning Workshop” 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 (Italian Ministry of Education, Universities and Research, 2015).

Overall, placemaking practices in Italy 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:

Bologna Urban Center. (n.d.). Bologna Urban Center. Retrieved from http://www.urban-center.it/en/

Italian Ministry of Education, Universities and Research. (2015). Young Planning Workshop. Retrieved from http://www.miur.gov.it/web/guest/-/giovani-in-azione-al-workshop-di-urbanistica-partecipata-2015