Placemaker Profiles Articles

The Placemaking movement was born over forty years ago, when pioneers like Jane Jacobs and William H. Whyte published their groundbreaking ideas about Americans and the urban experience. Back then there was no name for their way of thinking–they simply showed us that cities should be designed for people, with walkable streets, welcoming public spaces, and lively neighborhoods.

“Placemaker Profiles” highlights the individuals who have captured our imagination about the need to create great places in every community. By bringing together their valuable stories, key insights, and compelling visions, we hope to share their wisdom with our readers, honor their accomplishments, and acknowledge their profound influence on the Placemaking movement.

To nominate someone to be featured in Placemaker Profiles, email info@pps.org.

  • Jane Jacobs

    A true original who inspired a generation with her writings and activism in support of community-based planning.
  • David Engwicht

    Biography • Perspectives • Quotable • Publications • David Engwicht is one of the world’s most inventive thinkers on creating vibrant public spaces and is the founder of…
  • Alfred Tredway White

    Biography • Perspectives • Quotable • Resources Alfred Tredway White was arguably Brooklyn’s most significant and influential philanthropist and social reformer of the late 19th…
  • Rick Mariani

    A pioneer in managing transit stations as places.
  • Preston Maring

    A physician and surgeon with 34 years experience, Maring helped start an innovative neurosurgery unit for children.
  • Alan Barber

    Alan Barber is an advocate, activist, and critic who has worked tirelessly on behalf of Britain’s public parks and greenspaces for decades.
  • Rolf Monheim

    Rolf Monheim's groundbreaking research on how city centers thrive spurs Placemaking efforts around the world.