Trend Watch March 2025

Innovative accessibility is an opportunity to elevate public space

Accessibility in public spaces should be seen as an opportunity for innovation rather than just a compliance requirement, says Shay Erlich, the Founder of Ready for Access in an interview with MassivArt. Erlich’s work has helped organisations rethink accessibility to help those living with disability to fully engage with and take ownership of public spaces.

Erlich argues that the emphasis should be on creative placemaking, where public spaces are not only visually engaging but also fully accessible. Accessibility should be thought through from the beginning, ensuring plans incorporate diverse experiences.

In the interview Erlich shares examples of innovations in accessibility, such as using creative approaches in the arts and leveraging VR technology to make cultural experiences more inclusive. In the long-term, accessibility requires ongoing commitment – maintaining accessible public bathrooms and ensuring that spaces remain functional beyond the initial design phase. With continued oversight and collaboration with the disability community accessibility efforts can succeed.

Read more about Erlich’s work in this interview with MassivArt.

Ready for Access provide training, consultation, and co-design services to help organisations create inclusive environments.

Image: A public square where children engage with water fountains.
Credit: Robert Barlea for AMAIS, 2022 – Empathy Retreat

Project for Public Spaces: State of Public Space survey

Project for Public Spaces (PPS), founded in 1975, has worked for decades to help communities improve public spaces through education, planning, and advocacy. To mark its 50th anniversary, PPS conducted a global State of Public Space Survey with more than 700 public space professionals, to identify current challenges and opportunities in public space development. 

Results highlighted the potential of public spaces to address societal issues like healthcare and disaster relief. They also emphasise the need for better funding and management strategies.

PPS identify seven key areas that need renewed focus: aging infrastructure; bureaucracy; homelessness; access; social isolation; climate change; disinvestment and gentrification

As part of the State of Public Spaces Survey, respondents highlighted 375 inspiring public spaces and placemaking projects worldwide, showcasing the impact of well-designed public areas. These examples reaffirm the vital role of public spaces and the dedication of those working to enhance them.

Read the survey results here.

Image: People celebrate a birthday party on the planted median of the 34th Avenue Open Street. Credit: Elena Madison, courtesy Project for Public Space.