The discussion at the Cities and Placemaking event featured Richard Rnek, the mayor of Trenčín, Slovakia, who has been in office for 14 years. He shared insights on how his city has embraced placemaking to foster community trust, attract young people, and create a vibrant cultural and urban environment. Through participatory planning and international architectural competitions, Trenčín has transformed under his leadership, ensuring long-term development and modernization.
Reflecting on his personal journey, Rnek spoke about his deep-rooted connection to the city, inspired by his late father’s love for their hometown. His passion for Trenčín and vision for its future underline his commitment to making it a welcoming and thriving city for generations to come.
