ABSTRACT

Redesigning the Unremarkable is a timely and necessary reminder that the often neglected elements and spaces of our built environment – from trash bins, seats, stairways, and fences to streets, bikeways, underpasses, parking lots, and shopping centres – must be thoughtfully redesigned to enhance human and planetary health. Using the lens of sustainable, salutogenic, and playable design, in this inspiring book, Miller and Cushing explore the challenges, opportunities, and importance of redesigning the unremarkable. Drawing on global research, theory, practical case studies, photographs, and personal experiences, Redesigning the Unremarkable is a vital text – a doer’s guide – for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners wanting to transform and positively reimagine our urban environment. 

chapter 1|26 pages

Why focus on the unremarkable?

part Section I|68 pages

Unremarkable elements

chapter 282|15 pages

Throwing out

Redesigning trash bins and landfills to be more remarkable

chapter 3|18 pages

Sitting down

Redesigning benches and chairs to be more remarkable

chapter 4|16 pages

Moving up

Redesigning stairs to be more remarkable

chapter 5|17 pages

Blocking out

Redesigning walls and fences to be more remarkable

part Section II|83 pages

Unremarkable spaces

chapter 966|15 pages

Passing under

Redesigning underpasses to be more remarkable

chapter 7|14 pages

Strolling along

Redesigning streets and sidewalks to be more remarkable

chapter 8|15 pages

Going places

Redesigning bikeways and multi-use trails to be more remarkable

chapter 9|17 pages

Staying put

Redesigning parking lots to be remarkable

chapter 10|19 pages

Spending time and money

Redesigning shopping centres to be remarkable

chapter |1 pages

Conclusion

Redesigning the unremarkable – thinking differently