Choice by Marcin Wojciech Żebrowski
Movement – a miracle cure. Why walking through the city is worth it
Peter Walker
Walker presents a fascinating story about how lack of daily physical activity has become a modern epidemic. Using interviews with doctors, scientists, architects and politicians, the author shows how simple activities – like walking and biking – can dramatically improve our health, extend our lives and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. The book also examines how the infrastructure of cities can support or hinder daily movement, and shows what can be done to make activity a natural part of our lives.
The Art of Co-living
Gui Perdrix & Co-Live
A comprehensive guide based on more than 200 interviews with creators and operators of co-living spaces around the world. The author shares proven strategies for building community, managing real estate, designing spaces and implementing processes that foster inclusive living. The book is a practical handbook for designers, investors and co-living enthusiasts, showing how to create places where people feel safe, engaged and co-creating a community.
Slow down or die
Timothée Parrique
Parrique, a French economist, argues that endless economic growth is not the solution to the world’s problems today. In the book, he debunks the myth that prosperity depends on GDP, showing that the pursuit of growth fuels environmental and social crises. The author proposes a vision of a “post-growth” economy, in which the goal is social justice, the well-being of people and the planet, and decisions are made democratically. It’s an inspiring manifesto for slowing down and building a more sustainable future (and buildings too!).
The Village Effect. How interpersonal relationships affect health, happiness and human development
Susan Pinker
Psychologist Susan Pinker argues that face-to-face relationships are crucial to our health, happiness and longevity. The book, based on numerous studies and examples from different cultures, shows that strong social ties protect against disease, promote mental and physical resilience and extend life. Pinker proves that even loose connections – with neighbors or co-workers – matter a great deal, and that building the “village effect” is essential in an increasingly atomized world.
City Dreamers
dir. Joseph Hillel
Documentary dedicated to four prominent female architects who changed the thinking about urban design for decades. The film shows their contribution to the development of sustainable and socially responsible urbanism, inspiring reflection on the role of women in shaping urban spaces.
Marcin Wojciech Żebrowski’s interview with director Joseph Hillel can be found here.
urbcast
Urbcast is the leading bilingual podcast on urbanism, architecture and urban design, reaching more than 8,000 active listeners in 130 countries. Since 2020, more than 250 episodes have been produced, hosting more than 180 prominent experts, creating a space for inspiring discussions about the future of sustainable cities.