Nico Larco is a visionary leader and changemaker at the intersection of architecture, urban design, and sustainable development. As a Professor of Architecture at the University of Oregon, Director of the Urbanism Next Center, and Co-Founder and Co-Director of the Sustainable Cities Initiative, Nico has dedicated his career to designing environments that inspire human connection, improve our collective well-being, and contribute to a healthier planet. His unique blend of expertise, spanning cognitive psychology, architecture, urban planning, and international sustainability work, fuels his ability to see beyond conventional boundaries. With numerous national and international accolades under his belt, Nico’s impact resonates far beyond his immediate academic circle. He takes complex challenges, like balancing housing needs, social equity, and environmental resilience; and translates them into actionable strategies for livable density, walkable neighborhoods, and vibrant, human-centered public spaces. His recent co-authored book, The Sustainable Urban Design Framework, equips stakeholders with the insights needed to respond to complex challenges and build truly sustainable communities. Whether collaborating with public agencies, private developers, nonprofits, or students, Nico consistently models a spirit of partnership, understanding that transformative change only emerges when everyone’s voice is at the table. Nico Larco’s vision reframes the conversation around our cities. By placing people, relationships, and environmental resilience at the heart of architectural and urban design decisions, he reminds us that the spaces we shape ultimately shape us, guiding us all toward more vibrant, caring, and sustainable futures. Key Takeaways 1. Design for People First - Our built environment should be shaped around human needs, fostering interaction, well-being, and genuine connection. 2. Unlock Suburban Potential - Even in car-oriented suburbs, small tweaks; like adding walking paths or creating inviting public spaces, can spark a vibrant community life. 3. Value the Power of Density - Thoughtful, human-scale density can support walkability, reduce car-dependence, and bring neighbors closer together. 4. Embrace Active, Lively Streets - When buildings and businesses engage directly with sidewalks and public spaces, communities bloom with social activity and a sense of belonging. 5. Collaborate Across Boundaries - Progress happens when designers, policymakers, community members, and industry leaders join forces, share ideas, and solve problems as one. 6. Rethink Sustainability Holistically - True sustainability isn’t just about energy savings, it’s about health, equity, resilience, and helping people truly thrive. 7. Start Small and Go Big - Even the simplest interventions; like reorienting a storefront, creating a bike path, or adding seating, can spark transformative change and inspire others to reimagine their neighborhoods. Quotes 1. “The urban condition is not a physical thing, it’s a social thing. It’s absolutely about interaction—seeing people, interacting with people, and recognizing that’s where everything happens.” 2. “It’s not rocket science—just think about connections early on. Even creating a simple pedestrian path can transform how people move, interact, and build community.” 3. “We’re not just aiming for aesthetics; we need to make places that really work for people—places where everyday life becomes easier, more vibrant, and naturally more social.” Connect with Nico Linkedin -https://www.linkedin.com/in/nico-larco-6702a213/ Website -https://www.urbanismnext.org/ X - https://x.com/nicolarco Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/sustainable.urban.design/ Book -https://www.amazon.com/Sustainable-Urban-Design-Handbook/dp/1138945676
