KIND PLACES

What makes a place feel kind?

As an architectural illustrator, I’ve spent years drawing streets, parks, maps, and urban spaces. Lately, I’ve been thinking beyond the buildings. I’ve been asking: Can illustration help shape kinder cities? This question led me to a personal and professional project I call Kind Places.

What is a “Kind Place”?

To me, a Kind Place is:

• A space where children can play freely.

• Where nature is invited in, not pushed out.

• Where signs, shapes, and drawings make people feel welcome.

• Where architecture speaks not only of function but also of care.

  
  

It’s not about being perfect or utopian. It’s about making everyday spaces more thoughtful, joyful, and human. This can be achieved through design, storytelling, and imagination.

Why Illustration?

Illustration allows us to show what doesn’t exist yet. It goes beyond just buildings; it encompasses atmospheres, values, and stories.

With Kind Places, I use drawing as a tool to:

• Visualize ideas like inclusion, biodiversity, play, and joy.

• Connect people with the spaces they live in.

• Invite communities, especially kids, to dream about how cities could feel.

  
  

This isn’t about master plans. It’s about moments: a bench under a tree, a street full of chalk drawings, a sign in multiple languages. What I know is that kindness should be part of urban life. Drawing is one of the most powerful ways I know to imagine it.

In today’s world, cities can often feel overwhelming. The hustle and bustle can lead to a sense of isolation. This is where the concept of kindness in urban design becomes crucial. By creating spaces that promote kindness, we can foster a sense of community and belonging.

When designing urban spaces, it’s essential to consider how people will interact with them. Spaces that encourage social interaction can lead to stronger community bonds.

Integrating nature into urban environments is another way to promote kindness. Green spaces have been shown to improve mental health and well-being. They provide a refuge from the concrete jungle. When nature is invited into our cities, it creates a more inviting atmosphere.

Every urban space has a story to tell. By incorporating elements that reflect the local culture and history, we can create a deeper connection between people and their environment. Murals, sculptures, and community art projects can all serve as storytelling tools that enhance the sense of place.

Engaging the community in the design process is vital. When people feel involved, they are more likely to take ownership of their spaces. This can lead to a greater sense of pride and responsibility. Workshops, surveys, and collaborative projects can help gather input and ideas from the community.

Involving children in the design process is particularly important. They have unique perspectives and ideas that can shape kinder cities. By inviting kids to participate, we can empower them to dream big and envision the future of their communities.

The vision of Kind Places is about more than just aesthetics. It’s about creating environments that nurture kindness, connection, and community. By using illustration as a tool, we can visualize these ideas and inspire others to join the movement.

Let’s work together to make our cities kinder, one drawing at a time.