>> about <<
Urban planner - engaged in research and practice
Hello!
My name is Rosa Danenberg, based in Stockholm. I entered the field of urban planning and design in 2011 with a strong passion for human-scale. My interest for the urban environment departed from a curiosity to understand the conditions and factors for creating liveable cities. For me, this translates into the question: what are the ingredients of well-functioning public space, and how and why people use them (and why not)? Essentially, I’m interested in the dynamic between urban form and public life, and the importance of public space for connecting the two.
Within the urban context, the themes of diversity and complexity fascinate me. Cities today are witnessing increasing levels of segregation, privatization, commercialization and digitalization. The declining quality and quantity of public space is worrisome, costly and unjust, as for why I’m motivated to contribute to making cities for people. This means to me, prioritizing and (re)integrating the human-scale in city planning and design.
Outside of my PhD research, I am engaged in urban photography. Also, I’m available for freelance collaborations. Find my CV here.
A short introduction: where and when did my interests for cities start?
Copenhagen (2011) During a study period abroad, I was introduced to what became my main interest: Life between Buildings. In Copenhagen I learned about the work of Jan Gehl and became fascinated with city planning.
Amsterdam (2007-2013) I developed an interest for the governance of cities. This interest evolved during the freelance work (2012) in the neighborhood Oost in Amsterdam where I worked with citizen-led networks.
Stockholm (2013) To continue this new excitement for cities, I decided to pursue a master’s degree in urban planning and design at KTH.
Istanbul (2014) During another study period abroad, I delved into topics as citizen activism, urban governance, politics and mega projects. Eventually, I wrote the master thesis about bottom-up development in Stockholm and Istanbul (see publications).
Current work activities…
PhD research
After completing the Master’s degree, I returned to my initial interest for cities: the importance of good public space, the potential of entrepreneurship for neighborhood development, and urban design qualities that support community and livability.
The PhD research I successfully defended is concerned with 'streets as public space'. I investigated the value and role of main streets for a livable city. The research is aimed at understanding the main streets change, the role of property and design, and the kind of policy that could support an ecosystem of mixed functions including small businesses on main streets.
Freelance projects
I work as a freelancer in projects related to public space improvement and placemaking, as well as more thematic projects such as Child-friendly cities, Nightlife in the city, Loneliness in the city and more (2015-ongoing).
City tours and travel exchange
Over the years I have lived in Stockholm, I have gained experience with organizing field trips between Sweden and the Netherlands. Please get in touch if you are thinking about visiting either places.
Urban photography
Documenting the city has been a hobby of mine ever since I discovered my passion for cities. My first photography exhibition took place in August 2021.