Description
GBIA/AAE (Grenfell-Baines School of Architecture and the Association of Architectural Educators) Architecture Conference 2026. In this year's conference, we will explore how Terroir informs architectural design that responds to local culture. We will be looking at the concept through the theme ‘Terroir: Ethical and Empathic Place for a Common Future’.This theme reflects a desire and need for a paradigm shift. It calls for a move towards creating sustainable communities. It also focuses on building resilient systems that support them. These efforts are based on our shared values and a common goal for a more sustainable future. The theme represents the design, science, safety, and sustainability of craft and construction through creativity and innovation.
The event is open to practitioners, academics, researchers and students from across the UK and around the world. We welcome anyone who is passionate about and wants to discuss the future of architecture and the built environment.
RESEARCH: From Traffic to Empathic Streets: Rethinking Neighbourhood Regeneration through LTNs
Abstract:
Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) have rapidly expanded in the UK since the Covid-19 pandemic. As low-cost spatial interventions to promote active travel and more liveable neighbourhoods, LTNs represent a type of urban design practice based on local context and public participation. Existing research has focused on policy conflicts, transport congestion and public health impacts, with less attention paid to LTN design frameworks and how it may reshape residents lived experiences. This research examines how experts, stakeholders and practitioners understand and participate in LTN projects. Semi-structured interviews with residents, council officers, project managers, landscape architects, opponents, urbanism scholars and transport professionals, based in four UK cities, were conducted. Thematic coding of the data revealed diverse narratives on the relationship between design frameworks, spatial interventions, lived experiences and travel behaviours of residents. It also emphasised the importance of decision-making, public engagement and specific design issues, such as inclusive design, pedestrian environments, social interaction, children’s activity and neighbourhood identity. The paper demonstrates how a LTN design framework could enhance liveability and inclusivity of neighbourhood public spaces and hence the perceived success of LTN interventions. This research makes a positive contribution to knowledge on locally based urban regeneration design frameworks and inclusive and empathic neighbourhoods.
| Period | 16 Jul 2026 → 17 Jul 2026 |
|---|---|
| Event type | Conference |
| Location | PrestonShow on map |
| Degree of Recognition | International |