SUMMARY FOR ARTICLE

In a world where economic quantifiability seems to be paramount, urbanist Karen Kubey, a Faculty Fellow in Design for Spatial Justice at the University of Oregon, specialising in health and housing, examines how some US organisations are enhancing the case for participatory design, social impact and equitable urban design. the just city index the organisation s central measurement tool is not a points system but rather a framework that translates the concept of social justice into values indicators that might appear in the built environment. these range from the more concrete access: the convenient proximity to quality of or connectivity to basic needs amenities choices and decisions to the more abstract delight: creating places spaces and processes that promote happiness and joy. the programme uses quality-based selection to engage top architects and building professionals rather than awarding contracts to the lowest bidder and was established in as the first american municipal programme of its kind. facade universally understood so we look for opportunities to define it said michaela metcalfe the department s director of project excellence.