Jury comment
In recognition of exemplary leadership, advocacy, and pioneering research at the local and neighbourhood scale, the jury has awarded Quantifying Quality, a project that challenges the conventional methods of quantifying public space quality by democratising the process and integrating both subjective and objective data to refine design solutions.
The project’s innovative methodology leverages advanced evolutionary algorithms and crowd-sourced data to identify and prioritise the most important qualities of public spaces. By engaging over 230 participants and analysing over 5,600 image views, Quantifying Quality establishes correlations between subjective perceptions and objective metrics, providing invaluable insights into the elements that define high-quality urban environments. The findings challenge traditional planning review processes, emphasising the importance of factors such as shading, tree cover, seating provision and facade activation, which are often overlooked in favour of more limited metrics like sky view and solar access.
By embedding quantifiable data into local and state planning policies, Quantifying Quality sets a new standard for creating vibrant, inclusive, and responsive urban environments that truly reflect the needs and preferences of local communities. This project stands as a benchmark of innovation, guiding urban designers, planners, and policymakers toward a more informed and community-centric approach to shaping the built environment.
Quantifying Quality was undertaken in Warrane/Sydney on the land of the Gadigan people of the Eora nation.
To view all the winners of the 2024 Australian Urban Design Awards, go here.
