When was the last time you went for a walk just for the pleasure of it? Perhaps it was a stroll with your dog, a casual loop around the block during your lunch break, or a quiet moment with your baby in a stroller. Moving is one of the simplest and most natural things we do, yet it’s also one of the most enriching.
We often think of moving as a means to an end—getting from point A to point B. But what if it didn’t have to be? What if moving could simply be about the journey itself? Walking in circles without a destination, wandering just to see what’s around the next corner, or strolling along a tree-lined path can be deeply fulfilling. A great public space invites us to move not out of necessity, but out of joy, curiosity, or relaxation. And that, like nothing else, can really help our mind unwind and boost our well-being.
Moving, of course, isn’t the same for everyone. How does a stroll change if you’re a wheelchair user or a walker? What if you prefer to swap your walking shoes for rollerblades or hop on a skateboard? Great public spaces make room for all types of movement, accommodating people of every age and ability.
We don’t often stop to think about the importance of spaces that allow us to move freely, without hurry or obligation. But a well-designed public space offers us the chance to stretch our legs, clear our minds, and reconnect with the world around us. After a long day behind a screen, sometimes a simple walk outside can be just what we need.
What makes a public space good for moving? It’s more than just providing a path to walk on. The best spaces are networks, not spots, with experiences “along the way” that invite exploration and make us wonder, “what’s over there?” These spaces surprise and delight us, encouraging us to slow down, look around, and savour the act of moving.
Safety is a critical element. A public space designed for movement must be pedestrian-friendly and inclusive, with smooth, accessible surfaces for people with mobility challenges. There’s also the question of comfort. Can we find shelter from the scorching sun or rain? Are there places to pause and rest along the way? The design of a space can either encourage us to linger and explore—or make us eager to leave.
Nature adds another dimension to moving. Walking under the shade of trees, passing by a garden, or feeling the breeze near a fountain transforms the experience. A good public space invites you to be part of your environment, not just pass through it.
And then there’s the magic of playfulness. Imagine a winding path that leads you to a hidden sculpture, a colorful walkway that sparks curiosity, or even a spot that makes dancing in the rain feel like a gift rather than a burden. These elements make movement more than just functional—they make it joyful.
One example of a public space that celebrates moving is Copenhagen’s Superkilen Park.
This urban park isn’t just a place to pass through; it’s a journey filled with surprises. From unique art installations to playful paths and open areas for skating or cycling, the space invites exploration at every turn. Whether you’re walking, rolling, or simply stopping to take it all in, Superkilen shows how thoughtful design can turn movement into an adventure.
Not every public space needs to be a sprawling park filled with art and greenery. But as designers, we must ask: how can we make public spaces that feel welcoming and adaptable enough for people to move in their own way? A shaded sidewalk, a winding path, or even a simple bench placed thoughtfully along the way can transform the everyday act of moving into something special.
Do you use public spaces to move, to stroll, or to simply enjoy a change of scenery? Whatever your pace, great public spaces remind us that moving is more than just a means to an end—it’s a way to connect with ourselves, our communities, and our surroundings.
This post is the sixth of nine chapters where we dive into our approach to creating Good Public Space and explore the elements of our model.
In the next part, we’ll explore the concept of standing.
Stay tuned to discover more about how public spaces can support activities that are vital for our health and well-being!
Marta Nosowicz – Urban Planning Specialist
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