Digital placemaking for healthier cities: Reimagining place through technology, spatial practice and co-design
Building on earlier research for the NHS – ‘Digital placemaking for health and wellbeing in North East London’ – this poster presents a concise and visually engaging exploration of how digital placemaking can contribute to healthier, more connected urban and community environments. As cities face increasing pressures on public health, social cohesion and environmental sustainability, there is a growing need to reframe how we think about the role of technology in shaping our shared spaces.
The poster is structured around three core learning objectives:
- Understanding the conceptual foundations: I introduce the concept of digital placemaking – the strategic use of digital tools to enrich the experience of physical place – and explore its relevance in promoting health and wellbeing. Visual elements and brief case studies illustrate how digital interventions such as interactive installations, location-based storytelling, and sensory experiences can foster a sense of connection, encourage physical activity, and support mental health in public spaces.
- Reshaping spatial practice: Through diagrams and annotated examples, the poster demonstrates how digital technologies are transforming our relationship with place. It invites delegates to consider new modes of spatial interaction and mapping.
- Applying a Practical Framework: The final section introduces a user-friendly spatial framework developed to guide urban professionals, designers, policymakers and community leaders. The framework offers principles and prompts for identifying opportunities to use digital placemaking in ways that are inclusive, context-sensitive and aligned with local health and wellbeing goals.
By synthesising theory, practice and design strategy, this poster aims to inspire action and reflection. It is intended as a
springboard for further conversation and action about how we can embrace digital placemaking as an essential tool for shaping
cities that are more emotionally resonant, socially inclusive and resilient.
It is hoped that discussion around the poster will lead to a further iteration and an accompanying resource for place professionals and communities to use. The video will follow the same structure, expanding on each of the three elements. The aim of this submission is to create readily digestible and useable insight to make our places healthier.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the Conceptual Foundations: To define digital placemaking and explore its relevance in urban and community health, highlighting how digital tools can enhance public spaces, foster social connection and support wellbeing.
- To consider how digital technologies are reshaping our understanding of place: offering new ways to imagine spatial practice and the experiential dimensions of public space.
- Apply a Spatial Framework: To introduce a practical framework that guides policymakers, urban professionals and community leaders in exploring digital placemaking activities that contribute to healthier, more connected and resilient communities.
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