Shaping Vibrant, Inclusive, and Sustainable Communities
What is Urban Design?
Urban design is the art and science of shaping cities, neighborhoods, and public spaces to enhance how people experience and interact with them. It blends architecture, urban planning, engineering, and community engagement to create spaces that are functional, inclusive, and inspiring.
From sidewalks and crosswalks to parks and plazas, urban design determines how spaces look, feel, and function—whether they invite people in, connect communities, or create barriers.
Why Urban Design?
Urban design impacts daily life in ways we often take for granted.
Have you ever…
Enjoyed a well-designed space – Relaxing in a shaded park with seating, accessible pathways, and public art that invites people to gather and connect?
Felt frustrated by a space that needs improvement – Struggling to cross a busy intersection with confusing crossings that make walking feel unsafe?
Encountered a poorly designed space – Walking along a sidewalk that suddenly ends, forcing you onto the street?
If you’ve ever experienced any of these moments, you’ve lived urban design.
Good urban design enhances safety, accessibility, and quality of life by making places more walkable, connected, and vibrant. It strengthens community identity, supports local businesses, and ensures that public spaces are welcoming for all.
At Spark, we believe that great design starts with people—by listening to communities, advocating for better spaces, and shaping places that inspire pride and belonging.
How Do We Approach Urban Design?
Urban Design at Spark is about transforming spaces into thriving, accessible and community-driven environments. We work at the intersection of advocacy, placemaking, and education to ensure neighborhoods benefit from equitable, well-designed urban spaces.
Through initiatives like the Urban Design Hub, Community Advisory Board (CAB), and the North Omaha Trail, we ensure that every project reflects the unique character, needs, and aspirations of the communities we serve.
Want to learn more? Explore our Urban Design Toolkit!
Urban Design Pillars
Urban design stands on three strong pillars: Advocacy, Placemaking and Education. We advocate for equity, educate to empower, and shape spaces where community life thrives. These pillars guide how we engage residents, influence policy, and create people-centered spaces.
Advocacy
Advocacy at Spark ensures that community-driven design isn’t just an idea, but a reality reflected in policies and projects.
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Placemaking
Urban design goes beyond infrastructure, it’s about creating vibrant, inclusive, and meaningful spaces that reflect and serve the community.
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Education
At Spark, education isn't just about learning, it’s about creating pathways to leadership, impact, and long-term change.
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The Urban Design Lab at Spark is a collaborative space dedicated to community-driven urban innovation, design education, and creative placemaking. It serves as a platform for residents, designers, policymakers, and changemakers to come together and shape the future of their neighborhoods.
Through hands-on workshops, design charrettes, and advocacy initiatives, the Urban Design Lab empowers the community with the tools, knowledge, and resources to actively participate in shaping the built environment.
Location
Want to learn more about our Urban Desing Hubs... Visit Fabric Lab
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