How Past Pandemics Are Shaping the Future of Inclusive City Design
We often treat pandemics as isolated historical events, moments of crisis followed by a return to normalcy. But what if the “normal” after a pandemic isn’t a return, but a fundamental shift in how we design our cities – and, crucially, who those designs serve? A growing movement, spurred by research into the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the recent COVID-19 pandemic, is revealing how crises expose existing inequalities and demand a more inclusive approach to urban planning, one that actively remembers and responds to the needs of marginalized communities.
Olivier Vallerand, a professor at the University of Montreal’s design school, has been at the forefront of this exploration. His work, initially focused on the impact of HIV/AIDS on the built environment, unexpectedly converged with the COVID-19 experience. “I told myself that it would be interesting to combine these two things and to look at the influence of HIV on the built environment, as much in interior spaces as in the use of architecture to pass messages,” Vallerand explains. This convergence isn’t accidental; both pandemics highlighted how the built environment can both exacerbate and alleviate suffering, and how often the needs of vulnerable populations are overlooked.
The Invisible Histories of Crisis
Vallerand’s research underscores a critical point: marginalized communities are often the first and hardest hit by pandemics, yet their experiences are frequently erased from official narratives. “Marginalized populations do not often have access to official visible history,” he notes. This invisibility extends to the physical spaces they inhabit. During the HIV/AIDS crisis, for example, spaces like saunas and gay bars became vital hubs for prevention and support, yet these spaces were often stigmatized and ignored by mainstream urban planning. Similarly, the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the precarious housing situations of many low-income workers, forcing them to choose between safety and livelihood.
Inclusive city design isn’t simply about adding ramps or wider doorways; it’s about actively acknowledging and addressing these historical and ongoing inequalities. It’s about creating spaces that are not only accessible but also welcoming, safe, and culturally relevant for all residents.
Did you know? The development of “accompaniment houses” – facilities providing end-of-life care with dignity – during the HIV/AIDS crisis represented a radical shift in how society approached death and dying, and a direct response to the needs of a community facing immense loss.
From Activist Tactics to Architectural Interventions
The current exhibition, “Ghost body,” co-produced by Ducement and La Masse Basse, and the accompanying student design projects, demonstrate a powerful approach to making these invisible histories visible. Students, inspired by Vallerand’s research and interviews with activists, are translating personal stories and historical data into tangible architectural experiences.
One exhibition at Place-des-Arts utilizes a timeline and newspaper excerpts to illustrate the stigma faced by people living with HIV/AIDS. Photos, positioned close to the ground, evoke the experience of death and loss. Crucially, the exhibition includes a space for visitors to share their own testimonies, creating a living archive of collective memory. Another exhibition, at the Théâtre Duceppe, employs urban collage tactics – reminiscent of the Act Up group’s protests – to represent demonstrations and the tension between celebration and crisis.
These projects aren’t just about remembering the past; they’re about informing the future. By showcasing the tactics used by activists to claim space and demand recognition, the exhibitions offer a blueprint for more equitable urban planning.
The Role of Commemorative Spaces
Commemorative spaces, like parks dedicated to those lost to AIDS, are a vital component of this process. However, Vallerand argues that commemoration shouldn’t be limited to static monuments. “A basic example is the development of commemorative parks, but another would be the invention of a new typology of housing,” he says. The challenge lies in creating spaces that are not only respectful of the past but also actively contribute to the well-being of present and future generations.
Expert Insight:
“The key is to move beyond simply acknowledging trauma to actively designing spaces that foster healing, resilience, and a sense of belonging for all.” – Olivier Vallerand
Future Trends in Pandemic-Responsive Design
The lessons learned from HIV/AIDS and COVID-19 are poised to reshape urban design in several key ways:
- Flexible Infrastructure: The need for adaptable spaces – easily converted into temporary hospitals, testing centers, or isolation units – will become increasingly important. This requires a shift away from rigid, single-purpose buildings towards more versatile designs.
- Prioritizing Outdoor Spaces: Pandemics have underscored the importance of access to green spaces and fresh air. Future urban planning will likely prioritize the creation of more parks, pedestrian zones, and outdoor gathering areas.
- Decentralized Services: The concentration of essential services in densely populated areas proved problematic during both pandemics. A move towards more decentralized, neighborhood-based services could improve access and reduce vulnerability.
- Data-Driven Design: Utilizing data on population density, health disparities, and social vulnerabilities will be crucial for identifying areas at risk and tailoring interventions accordingly.
- Community Engagement: Perhaps most importantly, future urban planning must prioritize genuine community engagement, ensuring that the voices of marginalized populations are heard and incorporated into the design process.
Pro Tip: Consider incorporating “universal design” principles – designing spaces to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design – into all new construction and renovation projects.
The Long-Term Implications for Urban Equity
The convergence of these trends points towards a future where cities are not only more resilient to pandemics but also more equitable and inclusive. However, realizing this vision requires a fundamental shift in mindset. We must move beyond a reactive approach to crisis management and embrace a proactive approach to urban planning that prioritizes the needs of all residents, especially those who are most vulnerable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can cities better prepare for future pandemics?
A: By investing in flexible infrastructure, prioritizing outdoor spaces, decentralizing services, and utilizing data-driven design, cities can build resilience and mitigate the impact of future outbreaks.
Q: What role does community engagement play in pandemic-responsive design?
A: Community engagement is crucial for ensuring that urban planning reflects the needs and priorities of all residents, particularly marginalized populations.
Q: Are there examples of cities that are already implementing these strategies?
A: Several cities are experimenting with pop-up parks, pedestrianization schemes, and data-driven approaches to urban planning. For example, Barcelona’s “superblock” initiative aims to reclaim streets for pedestrians and create more livable neighborhoods. Learn more about Barcelona’s Superblocks
Q: How can individuals contribute to creating more inclusive cities?
A: Advocate for policies that prioritize equity and accessibility, support local organizations working to address social vulnerabilities, and participate in community planning processes.
What are your predictions for the future of inclusive city design? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
