Every day, we draw on the latest street furniture and urban design thinking from New Zealand and across the globe. Discover how to create unbeatable outdoor spaces that help improve daily lives in a fast-changing world.
Date published 3 October 2025
Schools across Aotearoa are facing rising challenges around student wellbeing, mental health and engagement. Sport New Zealand’s Active Bodies, Active Minds report points to a powerful and practical lever: Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC). From structured sport to free play and simple ‘brain breaks’, the report reveals how regular movement and time outdoors boosts wellbeing, […]
Date published 29 August 2025
A well-designed park BBQ area can transform a simple outdoor space into a hub for communities, whānau, and friends to gather, relax, and enjoy the outdoors. We’re serving up practical tips and the key “ingredients” for designing the ultimate BBQ area. From choosing the right BBQ itself, to creating smart layouts with seating, shade, and […]
Date published 21 August 2025
What if the design of your outdoor space could not only look good, but do good? What if smart design choices – including street furniture – could help your community not just feel safe, but actually be safer? That’s the power of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED): a proven approach that helps you plan […]
Date published 27 February 2025
Our public spaces are evolving. As cities and communities become more densely populated, public furniture has become vital in shaping how to better experience and share outdoor spaces. In 2025, street furniture trends point toward a fusion of natural elements and innovation, emphasising designs that find new ways to enrich our relationship with not just […]
Date published 26 November 2024
Memorial seats are a heartfelt way to commemorate a passed loved one, providing a place for family and friends to reflect on shared memories. If you are considering a memorial seat in a park, it is important to consider the process, associated costs and the ideal seat for this purpose. At Urban Effects we can […]
Date published 25 October 2024
Investing in well-designed outdoor spaces is more than just a beautification strategy – it is a move that is proven to deliver tangible, lasting benefits on both an individual and community-wide level. In this article, we explore the evidence-backed reasons why outdoor spaces deserve a prime position in local government plans. From enhancing public health […]
Date published 8 October 2024
Dog-friendly parks, including fenced dog parks and off-leash dog parks are quickly transitioning from a niche offering to a core feature in community development and town planning. In this article, we explore the popularity of dog parks, the social benefits and the essential dog park equipment and street furniture designed to keep these green spaces […]
Date published 23 September 2024
In an era where genuine connections can sometimes feel rare, the Chatterbox Seats are making a remarkable difference. These innovative seating spaces are more than just furniture; they symbolise a movement towards deeper community engagement and enhanced mental wellbeing. Here’s why Chatterbox Seats matter and how your community can be part of this transformative journey. […]
Date published 19 September 2024
As our cities grow and evolve, the need for sustainable, eco-friendly transport options becomes increasingly important. A major incentive for communities to use active transport is by providing the right infrastructure. Specifically for cyclists, safe and convenient bike facilities play a crucial role in this. Whether for transport hubs, parks, cities, urban areas, or other […]
Date published 31 July 2024
Knowing how to create an inviting and functional outdoor public space is a significant aspect of effective urban planning. Arguably, the most impactful element in this process is creating outdoor shade spaces with permanent outdoor shelters. Outdoor shade structures serve a variety of purposes, enhancing both the utility and aesthetic appeal of parks, streets and […]
Date published 17 July 2024
When building new suburban areas or working to improve current areas, urban planning and urban design are two important concepts that come into consideration. Urban planning and urban design although interconnected, are unique terms. Understanding the difference between urban planning and urban design is crucial for councils, architects and developers who are tasked with creating […]
Date published 16 May 2024
Our quest for greener, cleaner lifestyles and desire to combat the downsides of increasing urbanisation is giving urban planners and landscape architects fresh scope to re-think city streets and spaces. And street furniture is taking centre stage. Efficient public transport. Walkable and bikeable cities and neighbourhoods. Public green spaces. These are the three core elements […]
Date published 14 May 2024
Looking for refreshingly different waste management solutions for your outdoor spaces? Modern public bins streamline waste collection, promote environmentally safe disposal of waste, and are far more aesthetically pleasing, too. In today’s community spaces – from parks and reserves to city streets and sidewalks, and retail and commercial precincts – effective waste management is a […]