Liveable Urbanism - A Sociable City

The project "Walk, Stop, Talk" aims to address the challenges posed by the growing proximity between individuals in Calicut, resulting from its rapid development and urban sprawl. This increasing physical distance hampers social activities, leading to a sense of isolation and loneliness, which directly impacts their overall well-being. To counteract this trend and foster social cohesion, the proposal suggests the establishment of a pedestrian ring in the city center, encouraging people to embrace slow travel as their primary mode of transportation.

. By advocating for a slow travel mode, such as walking or cycling, the project seeks to enhance socialization opportunities by facilitating spontaneous contacts, shared experiences, and increased visibility among individuals. It is widely recognized that people who choose active modes of transportation are more likely to interact with one another as "seeing others and being seen" is the condition of socialisation. This slower pace of these modes of travel allows individuals to stop and engage in conversations more easily.

To promote the use of the proposed green pedestrian ring, the project emphasizes the importance of implementing various programs and initiatives along the path. Specifically, vacant plots and unused open spaces will be transformed into new public areas that serve as catalysts for socialization. These architectural interventions will be strategically designed to create a series of interconnected spaces, characterized by oversized roofs, oblique walls, and steel structures. This shared architectural language will serve as a wayfinding device, guiding people along the pedestrian ring and fostering a sense of continuity and direction. The ultimate goal of these interventions is to establish a network of interconnected architectural spaces that function as vibrant socializing spots for both local residents and visitors. These spaces will provide opportunities for people to "STOP" and engage in various social activities, thereby nurturing a sense of community and strengthening social bonds. By transforming underutilized areas into vibrant public spaces, the project aims to increase the overall value of walking as a preferred mode of transportation, simultaneously addressing the challenges posed by physical distancing and promoting social cohesion in Calicut.