Open Space
Designing Open Spaces That Inspire, Engage, and Evolve
Open space is essential to human well-being. Parks, plazas, and the public realm are where people gather, reflect, and build community—but they also face pressures from climate change, overuse, and underinvestment. At UrbanSense, we help cities and organizations rethink how public spaces can better serve diverse users while adapting to long-term challenges.
OUR APPROACH
Collaborating for the Next Generation of Open Spaces
We guide public agencies, developers, and civic partners in creating open spaces that inspire, engage, and evolve.
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We oversee open space projects from vision to execution. Our team ensures smooth coordination across stakeholders, timelines, and budgets—delivering inclusive, well-managed spaces that serve communities long into the future.
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We design strategies that unlock value through placemaking, public-private partnerships, and equitable access—ensuring that investments in green infrastructure uplift neighborhoods and local economies.
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We help transform public spaces into climate-resilient assets. Through green infrastructure, energy-efficient design, and regenerative systems, we support cities in creating spaces that adapt to climate change while enhancing community well-being.
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We lead participatory research and engagement processes to better understand how communities use and experience public spaces.
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We help civic leaders and nonprofit partners envision the future of parks and public spaces through technology. Our master planning approach identifies digital enhancements that improve visitor experience, enhance safety and operations, and support long-term sustainability.
OUR WORK
client success stories
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![Michigan Central Building Ford Motor Company Detroit, MI]()
Michigan Central Strategic Plan and Implementation Support
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![People walking in The Underline Friends of The Underline - Miami, FL]()
The Underline Technology Master Plan
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![Hudson Yards New York City skyline viewed from a rooftop, showcasing iconic skyscrapers against a clear blue sky.]()
Hudson Yards Digital Master Plan, Product Build, and Playbook for Scaling Innovation
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![A bustling alleyway filled with people walking, surrounded by tall buildings and vibrant urban scenery in Nihonbashi, Tokio.]()
Digital Master Plan for Nihonbashi, Tokyo
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![Aerial view of a cityscape with green parks, meandering waterways, bridges, and modern buildings under a blue sky.]()
Knight Foundation Tech & Open Space Program
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![Aerial view of a developed Governors Island with greenery, buildings, and pathways surrounded by water, with the skyline of New York City in the background.]()
Governors Island Climate Solutions Center Start-up
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![An artist's rendering of the new parkland plaza Water Street, showcasing greenery and urban design in the city center.]()
Water Street Digital Master Plan
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![Aerial view of New York City showcasing its iconic skyline and bustling streets.]()
Port Covington Digital Master Plan
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![Aerial view of a modern shopping center Lake Nona showcasing its layout and surrounding landscape.]()
Lake Nona Digital Master Plan & Prototyping
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![A view of SoLe mia skyline with modern buildings rising above the water, showcasing the city's innovative waterfront development.]()
SoLe Mia Digital Master Plan
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![People navigate a staircase in a lively city setting, showcasing the dynamic atmosphere of urban life.]()
The High Line Accessibility Pilot
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![Individuals are seated on benches atop a high line, surrounded by greenery and city views, creating a tranquil urban retreat.]()
The Rail Park Data & Privacy Pilot
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![A seagull on a green roof in front of skyscrapers, showcasing the New York City Bird Alliance's focus on urban biodiversity.]()
NYC Bird Alliance Biodiversity District Planning and Environmental Monitoring
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![Scenic landscape with a pond, fountain, lush green grass, colorful autumn trees, and mountains in the background under a clear blue sky.]()
Catskill Watershed Corporation Community Vitality Study
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![A bridge over a river with colorful autumn trees and a mountain in the background.]()
NYC DEP Watershed, Water Supply and Flood Risk Information Design
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![Night view of a large building with five arches, decorated with holiday lights and a Christmas tree inside.]()
Lincoln Center Visitor Engagement & Outreach
INSIGHTS
Rethinking Mobility for the Post-COVID Future
Excerpt: As cities navigate recovery post-COVID, urban mobility faces a pivotal transformation. From safer public transit to smarter partnerships with private providers, this piece outlines the urgent need — and exciting opportunity — to reimagine how we move through cities. The future of transportation depends on bold planning, community engagement, and technological foresight.
Ready to create vibrant, inclusive public spaces?
Contact UrbanSense to discuss how we can help you shape experiences that reflect community values.