10 Examples of Urban Design We Need to Have in Every City

The world’s population is becoming increasingly urban and 68% of people are expected to live in cities by 2050, according to the UN. No wonder it’s getting more and more important for urban design to be innovative and convenient. The environment that surrounds us in the streets every day has the ability to influence our mood, our behavior, and even our way of thinking.

Bright Side gathered 10 urban design ideas that are so innovative every city should adopt them. Get ready to be surprised, as many of them are totally ahead of their time!

1. A glowing bike path

This bike path, located in Poland, is a great solution for those who love taking an evening ride. It’s made of light-emitting materials that glow in the dark. Its glow makes it much safer than a regular bike path and definitely more entertaining!

2. Creative traffic lights

What do you think about when you wait to cross the road? Maybe about love? These traffic lights definitely remind us about what really matters in life.

3. Extraordinary sculptures

Isn’t it cool to see an everyday object in a completely unusual environment? Like these huge domino tiles popping out of the ground, for example? This definitely makes people stop for a second and remember that life is a big game.

4. A street library

People nowadays spend more and more time watching videos instead of reading books. But street libraries, like this one, are meant to encourage people to dedicate some time to a good book. It’s definitely something that every city should adopt, isn’t it?

5. Spectacular fountains

As you watch it, you might get hypnotized by the flow of its waters as this astonishing and impressive fountain seems to rise from above.

6. Cool trash bins

How do you show people that garbage should be put into a trash can, not thrown on the street? “In Norway, you get a small amount of money for recycling bottles/cans. They’re often collected by poor people, homeless etc. A lot of our trash cans have these holders around them so people don’t have to search through the trash to collect them.”

7. “Seniors can extend crossing time for this 8 lane highway”

8. “Certain subways in Japan give a helping hand with your bike.”

9. “This wheelchair-accessible park bench.”

10. “This sidewalk for smartphone users”

Which of these urban designs would you love to see in your city? Have you heard about any innovative design initiatives? Share your opinion in the comments.