Shows
The Climate QuestionCan we build better cities for mental health and the climate?Today, more than half the world’s population live in cities – and as our numbers swell, so will our cities, especially those around the Pacific Rim, where it’s predicted our largest megacities of 10 million plus will be situated. And herein lies an opportunity: 60% of the buildings needed for 2050 are not yet built.Could we shape our cities into places that are good for the climate and also good for our mental health? Can we design buildings and infrastructure that make green decisions easier and also help us deal with stress or depression?In a progra...
2025-10-1326 min
Urbanism VancouverDesigning for Happiness (with Houssam Elokda)The conversation continues with Houssam Elokda from Happy Cities, as Helen Lui explores the impact of the built environment on communities, emphasizing the importance of creating livable and sustainable cities. They discuss the subjective nature of happiness and well-being in urban settings, also highlighting the significance of social connections, community, and meaningful interactions in fostering happiness.References:Hey Neighbour Collective Happy Homes project: https://www.heyneighbourcollective.ca/resources/
Show Credits:Host: Helen LuiProducer: Aaron JohnsonCover Art By: the Sneaky Artist (https://sneakyart.substack.com/)Covert Art Titles...
2024-06-0347 minUrbanism VancouverDoes Density Impact Happiness? (with Houssam Elokda)Density is a hotly debated topic in urban centres. Is it good? Is it bad? Does it make us more isolated, more lonely, or can it improve our happiness?Helen Lui speaks with Houssam Elokda, from Happy Cities. Their research explores the connection between urban design and happiness, striving to enhance the quality of life in cities through sustainable long-term happiness. By prioritizing people's experiences and emotions, they aim to implement urban interventions that are not only impactful but also tailored to the unique needs and values of each community.Houssam delves into the significance...
2024-05-2735 minThe Climate QuestionCan we build better cities for mental health and the climate?Today, more than half the world’s population live in cities – and as our numbers swell, so will our cities, especially those around the Pacific Rim, where it’s predicted our largest megacities of 10 million plus will be situated. And herein lies an opportunity: 60% of the buildings needed for 2050 are not yet built. Could we shape our cities into places that are good for the climate and also good for our mental health? Can we design buildings and infrastructure that make green decisions easier and also help us deal with stress or depression?Jordan Dunbar hears...
2024-05-1326 min
Viewpoint VancouverHoussam Elokda on the Heliopolis Effect, Happy Cities, and Doing Nothing TogetherIt’s not Vancouver, but it sounds like the Vancouver we want to be: multi-family residential buildings located close to the urban centre. Generously spaced laneways and semi-private lots for kids to play. Sufficient access to high storefronts, services and other amenities, in ever-expanding concentric circles of community, neighbourhood, and city.It’s Heliopolis — once a suburb 10 kilometres outside of Cairo, today swallowed up by the city. And like most neighbourhoods in Vancouver, it’s highly sought-after by Egypt’s urban elite as a place to live, and invest.It’s also just over a centu...
2019-05-2141 min