Speaking at the Festival of Place

Exploring belonging, identity and storytelling in placemaking.

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NOOMA Studio recently spoke at the Festival of Place, contributing to a cross-disciplinary discussion on belonging, identity and storytelling in placemaking.

The presentation explored how public space shapes collective memory and how everyday encounters within streets, courtyards and parks contribute to a sense of shared ownership. It examined the relationship between private and public realms, and how thoughtful threshold design can mediate between the two.

Drawing on live projects, the talk highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for human connection within dense urban environments. Storytelling, participation and intergenerational engagement were positioned as fundamental tools in building resilient neighbourhoods.

The event provided a valuable platform for dialogue between designers, developers, artists and local authorities, reinforcing the idea that placemaking is as much about cultural infrastructure as it is about physical form.