Table of Contents

Biophilic Planning

This article explains how planners can increase mental and emotional health and wellbeing, with one key characteristic of happy cities being access to open and natural green space. In addition to identifying other key characteristics for a happy city, the article also provides a framework planners can use to plan to increase happiness.

Built Environment and Health

This article considers what planners can do to improve the mental health and wellbeing of their communities. More open, natural, and green space, opportunities for social interaction, and safety can all contribute to resident happiness. It advocates for the development of happiness indicators to assess the impact of planning interventions.