In recent years, the placemaking movement has grown immensely thanks to the inspiring and fearless local leaders who have championed this approach. We now saw that these actions can only lead to sustainable and long-term changes if they are supported by decision-makers and local governments. This is why we, Placemaking Europe, are committed to making placemaking systemic. We believe that involving a growing number of civil servants in placemaking is a path to a more sustainable and resilient future, with the interests of communities at its heart.
And this is why in March 2023 we launched Cities in Placemaking – a city-to-city learning programme with and for European cities. Cities in Placemaking is a continuous, 2-year learning partnership for municipal public administrations. The programme creates awareness and practical knowledge about placemaking and builds a group of innovative, solution-oriented and passionate city representatives who put placemaking at the heart of urban transformation. Together we are setting new standards for creating healthy, inclusive and lovable communities through better public space.

With the Cities in Placemaking programme our mission is to create a next generation of placemaking experts in governance and together and through the programme we strive to:
- work, share and learn together with the Placemakers from the municipalities,
- break down the silos and advocate for placemaking at the Municipalities,
- develop a roadmap for placemaking for systemic change.
In 2023-2024, through our journey with 12 pioneering cities, the programme has successfully completed its eight key milestones, culminating in a significant achievement—the signing of the Agenda for Making Placemaking Systemic by the mayors of the participating cities. This marks a major step toward embedding placemaking principles into municipal decision-making, ensuring long-term, sustainable urban transformation. Driving this transition is the interdepartmental working group – a dedicated team of over 50 public officials actively engaged in the programme. The group brought together a diverse range of experts from fields such as planning, strategy, tourism, youth, culture, landscape, infrastructure, sustainability, women, sports, and social welfare, ensuring a holistic and inclusive approach to systemic change.
By bringing placemaking into governance, Cities in Placemaking is setting a new standard for healthy, inclusive, and vibrant public spaces across Europe. As we move forward, we continue to advocate for systemic change, breaking silos within municipalities, and equipping civil servants with the tools to lead this transformation.
If you want to learn more or get involved, explore our brochure and connect with us!