For centuries, cities have generally been planned by men, for men. From transport systems to public areas, housing layouts to work infrastructure, urban design has tended overwhelmingly to give priority to the needs and routines of men—and, too often, at the expense of women's experiences.
But imagine we turn it around. Imagine cities were planned around women's lives, not the other way round. The outcome would not just be a city better for women but a city safer, more inclusive, and more functional for everyone.
The Invisible Bias in Urban Planning
The default city is one built around a template that assumes people:
- Work a central-site 9–5 job
- Travel alone, typically by car
- Move through the city without dependents
- Have minimal concern for personal safety in public spaces
This template broadly accommodates male patterns of work and movement. But women’s lives look very different:
- They’re more likely to make many short trips a day—for work, childcare, errands.
- They walk more and use public transport more frequently.
- They face higher risks of harassment or violence in public spaces.
- They often take on caregiving roles, needing easy access to parks, schools, and services.
The outcome? Cities that systemically ignore half the population's needs.
The Reality of Safety for Women
As a woman, it’s second nature to develop strategies for navigating the city safely. I carry my keys between my fingers as a weapon at night. I avoid quiet streets. I choose routes with open sightlines and lighting. I even walk down the middle of the road to avoid being boxed in by parked cars or walls.
These aren’t rare or dramatic reactions—every woman I know has her own version of these mental safety checklists. And they influence how we move, when we move, and which parts of the city feel off-limits.
But what if cities were designed so we didn’t need to think this way?
Reimagining Cities for Women
A city built with women in mind would prioritize safety, accessibility, and flexibility—benefits that improve life for everyone.
1. Cities That Cater to Women’s Travel
- More frequent, flexible transport: Women make more “trip chains” (like school drop-offs before work), but transit is often designed around single, direct commutes. Cities need routes that match real-life routines.
- Safe, well-lit stops and stations: Women avoid public transport at night because it often feels unsafe. Lighting, visibility, and monitored waiting areas can transform that.
- Stroller- and wheelchair-friendly design: More space for prams and accessibility needs benefits mothers, seniors, and people with disabilities.
Case Study – Vienna, Austria:
In the 1990s, Vienna studied how men and women use the city differently. The results led to better-lit subway stations, elevators for prams and wheelchairs, and bus routes aligned with women’s travel patterns.
2. Streets Designed for Safety and Inclusion
- Pedestrian-first design: Wider sidewalks, fewer car-heavy roads, and safer crossings help make walking more inviting.
- Visibility and lighting: More streetlamps, open sightlines, and active shopfronts reduce the risk of harassment.
- More public toilets: It’s a simple thing that makes a huge difference—especially for women, children, and older adults.
Case Study – Glasgow, Scotland:
A citywide safety audit revealed how poor lighting and isolated walkways limited women’s freedom. Glasgow responded with better lighting, redesigned pedestrian routes, and emergency call stations.
Case Study – Barcelona’s Superblocks:
Barcelona’s pedestrian-first “superblocks” reduce car traffic, expand sidewalks, and create lively public spaces. The result? Safer streets and lower crime rates—especially for women and seniors.
Case Study – Walking Bus Initiatives:
Programs where groups of children walk to school with adult volunteers increase safety, reduce traffic, and build social connection. Women—who are often the ones managing school drop-offs—benefit most.
3. Public Spaces That Are Secure and Inviting
- Design parks for all users: Instead of big, empty fields geared toward football, parks can include shaded seating, safe play zones, and flexible spaces for all kinds of recreation.
- Broader recreation options: Public areas should offer more than skateparks and football pitches—spaces where girls and less sporty individuals feel welcome.
- Build-in passive surveillance: Public places feel safer when they’re busy. Cafés, markets, and events create community presence and discourage isolation.
Case Study – Umeå, Sweden:
Umeå redesigned public parks based on feedback from women. The changes included better lighting, inclusive sports facilities, and social gathering spaces—not just traditional sports fields.
4. A City That Supports Care Work
- Integrate childcare into public infrastructure: Cities can offer childcare near offices, transit hubs, and shopping areas to make caregiving easier.
- Build housing near key services: Affordable homes should be located near schools, healthcare, and parks—not pushed to the outskirts.
Case Study – Stockholm, Sweden:
Stockholm’s child-friendly planning puts housing near schools, improves stroller access, and integrates childcare into residential areas. This helps caregivers—especially women—save time and find balance.
A City for Women is a City for Everyone
When cities are designed with women in mind, they become safer, more inclusive, and more livable—for everyone. Parents, children, the elderly, people with disabilities—all benefit from planning that values care, safety, and accessibility.
Because designing a city for women isn’t just about gender—it’s about equity. And that’s something every city needs.
Image credits: Woman holding child by Francisco Osorio CC, Running by PLOFIZ CC
