Generative City and Generative Communities

This chapter discusses the importance of proximity in the growing trend among cities to adopt regenerative models that prioritise sustainability, inclusion, and participation. Collaborative and participatory practices have emerged as critical mechanisms for promoting well-being and prosperity in urban communities. Social innovations are often driven by local communities that can mobilise resources and expertise, helping to steer projects from ideation to realisation, and creating value for the city. Drawing on three case studies targeting different communities, this chapter emphasises proximity as an agent of change, capable of supporting regenerative and relational models that can transform and regenerate services and initiatives at the urban scale. This work underscores the essential role that individuals, communities and places play in advancing participatory and collaborative design practices that prioritise the well-being and prosperity of urban residents.