Redesigning the Unremarkable

Redesigning the Unremarkable is a book that emphasizes the importance of redesigning overlooked elements and spaces in our built environment to promote human and planetary health. It offers a sustainable, salutogenic, and playable design approach and provides a practical guide for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to transform and positively reimagine our urban environment.

Format: Hardback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 02 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Redesigning the Unremarkable is a timely and essential reminder that the often overlooked elements and spaces of our built environment, ranging from trash bins, seats, stairways, and fences to streets, bikeways, underpasses, parking lots, and shopping centers, must be carefully reimagined to promote human and planetary health. Through the lens of sustainable, salutogenic, and playable design, this inspiring book by Miller and Cushing explores the challenges, opportunities, and significance of redesigning the unremarkable. Drawing on extensive global research, theory, practical case studies, photographs, and personal experiences, Redesigning the Unremarkable serves as a vital text—a practical guide—for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners seeking to transform and positively reimagine our urban environment.

The authors argue that redesigning these unremarkable elements and spaces is crucial for creating healthier, more sustainable, and enjoyable urban environments. They highlight the negative impact of conventional designs on human health, such as sedentary behavior, pollution exposure, and social isolation. By incorporating sustainable practices, promoting active transportation, and creating inclusive and accessible spaces, redesigning the unremarkable can contribute to improved physical and mental well-being, reduced environmental impact, and increased social cohesion.

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of recognizing the potential of everyday objects and spaces. The authors argue that even the most mundane items, such as trash bins, can be designed in ways that encourage positive behavior and promote sustainability. For example, they suggest using smart trash bins that can track waste generation and optimize collection routes, reducing waste and increasing recycling rates. Similarly, seating arrangements in public spaces can be designed to encourage social interaction and promote active mobility, such as benches that allow people to sit and chat while also providing a place to rest or exercise.

Another important aspect of redesigning the unremarkable is the consideration of the diverse needs and preferences of urban residents. The authors recognize that different people have different needs and preferences when it comes to their urban environment, and that designing for diversity can create more inclusive and equitable spaces. For example, they suggest incorporating accessible features such as ramps and lifts for people with disabilities, as well as creating spaces that cater to different age groups and cultural backgrounds.

The book also provides practical examples and case studies from around the world, showcasing successful redesign projects that have transformed unremarkable spaces into vibrant and thriving communities. These case studies demonstrate the potential for small-scale interventions to have a significant impact on human health and well-being, and they provide valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners seeking to implement similar redesign initiatives.

In conclusion, Redesigning the Unremarkable is a thought-provoking and inspiring book that highlights the importance of redesigning the often neglected elements and spaces of our built environment. By adopting a sustainable, salutogenic, and playable design approach, we can create healthier, more sustainable, and enjoyable urban environments that promote human and planetary health. The book provides valuable insights and practical examples for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners seeking to transform and positively reimagine our urban environment.

Weight: 520g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367511906