PADZZLE by Anna Domingo

  Creating spaces that bring people together, whether through art, architecture, or community development, is at the heart of placemaking. But as technology evolves, the way we experience these spaces is also changing. Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and the metaverse promise to transform the experience, offering accessibility and unique perspectives. However, can these digital tools truly replace the depth and authenticity of real-world experiences? Drawing on my reflections and past work, this blog explores the debate between virtual and real placemaking—when does technology enhance, and when does it fall short? Revisiting Placemaking at Its Best When I think of extraordinary placemaking, my mind always returns to The Gates by Christo and Jeanne-Claude in Central Park, 2005. Standing amidst 7,503 flowing saffron panels, it was impossible not to feel inspired, engaged, and deeply present. This unique installation wasn’t just art—it was an experience, drawing mill...

  Wrapping Up 2024 with Gratitude and Excitement for the Year Ahead As the holiday season draws near and we prepare to step into 2025, we want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journeys we’ve had this year. At PADZZLE 2024 has been nothing short of extraordinary, and it's all thanks to you—our trusted clients. This year, we had the privilege of working on remarkable projects across the globe. From the bustling energy of New York City to the serene landscapes of The Caribbean , the innovative pulse of Los Angeles , the timeless allure of Egypt , and the dynamic future of Riyadh , each project has been a testament to collaboration, innovation, and vision. Here’s what made 2024 truly special: Innovation in Design – We’ve tackled ambitious projects that redefined placemaking with cutting-edge ideas and forward-thinking approaches. New Visions for Placemaking and Entertainment – Together, we’ve created spaces and experiences that inspire joy, community, and connection. ...

  Just recently, I spent a few days in Lloret de Mar—a beautiful Mediterranean destination my family has frequented for decades. Every visit brings a duality of emotions. I return refreshed, basking in the crystal-clear waters and enjoying new spots like the stunning Castell cocktail bar. But I leave upset, frustrated by the town’s stubborn adherence to an obsolete tourism model. Lloret de Mar continues to cling to mass tourism, and it’s a model that no longer makes sense. The numbers back this up. Lloret de Mar offers around 30,000 rooms , a staggering figure for such a small city. To put this into perspective, Barcelona has about 39,000 rooms , and New York, a global behemoth, has around 123,000 rooms, minus 16,000 used for non-hospitality purposes like immigration housing. Why does this matter? Because while Lloret de Mar remains anchored to an outdated concept , it misses opportunities for more sustainable and profitable models. The pre-pandemic tourism data shows little to n...

A few days ago, I was mesmerized by vintage pictures of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) featured in an article by Los Angeles Magazine . The article, written by Jean-Christophe Dick, LAX Airport Historian and President of the Flight Path Museum, showcased the architectural visions proposed in the mid-1950s. These historical renderings evoked a sense of nostalgia and admiration for the foresightedness of the architects who viewed airports as not just transit points but as spaces that could offer memorable experiences beyond travel. This took me back to a pivotal moment in my life as a young traveler at the age of 19.  I found myself stranded at Madrid's airport, waiting for six hours with absolutely nothing to do. It was 1990, and I remember feeling frustrated by the lack of amenities or entertainment options. It struck me then that airports had the potential to be so much more than just places you hurriedly pass through. Fast forward to today, and the landscape of airports ...

My latest article on the power of placemaking has landed a spot in this month's edition of  Retail & Leisure International . 📖 In today's landscape, creating meaningful spaces isn't just about aesthetics; it's about striking a harmonious balance between ROI and nurturing community engagement. I've dived into how businesses and developers can achieve this blend and why it's a crucial consideration for sustainable growth and enriched collective experiences. Join the conversation: What's your experience integrating placemaking into your business strategy? Have you witnessed the transformation it brings? I’d love to hear your insights.

  🌆 Embrace the Power of Placemaking and Roundabouts 🚗 As urban development continues to shape the future of our cities, two concepts stand out: placemaking and roundabouts. Let's explore how these elements contribute to vibrant communities and efficient traffic management. 🏙️ Placemaking: Creating Spaces that Thrive Placemaking goes beyond constructing buildings; it's about creating spaces that foster community, connection, and well-being. By integrating public art, green spaces, and pedestrian-friendly design, placemaking enhances the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. It's a powerful tool for shaping the identity and character of our cities. 🚦 Roundabouts: Efficiency and Safety in Motion Roundabouts are not just traffic circles; they are modern, efficient solutions for managing traffic flow. Compared to traditional intersections, roundabouts reduce congestion, minimize travel delays, and enhance safety by eliminating head-on and high-speed side-impact ...