Why culture is becoming central to successful placemaking

Arts and culture are no longer a “nice-to-have” in mixed-use development, they are becoming central to creating places where people want to spend time.

That’s the view of Joss Taylor, Head of Activation and Enlivenment at Populate, who recently contributed to Property Week on the growing role of culture in development.

“Ten years ago, culture was often used to fill empty space or activate sites temporarily,” says Joss. “But through that, developers have seen there’s a genuine win-win. It brings value to the place and to the scheme commercially.”

Today, developers are increasingly recognising that cultural uses can drive footfall, shape identity and help schemes stand out. “There’s a far greater appetite now,” Joss explains. “Developers understand the role culture can play in shaping successful places.”

At Socius and Populate, this approach is already being brought to life. At Edward Street Quarter in Brighton, monthly food markets create a regular draw for visitors and support the local community. At the London Cancer Hub in Sutton, a programme of activation from padel courts to events as part of the London Festival of Architecture, is helping to establish a sense of place early.

For culture to succeed, Joss emphasises the importance of embedding it from the outset and working closely with operators to ensure long-term viability. Flexibility is also key, with meanwhile uses and multi-functional spaces allowing developers to test ideas and keep places active throughout the day.

“There isn’t a blueprint you can apply everywhere,” he says. “It has to respond to the place, the community and what’s already there.”

While London is still catching up to other UK cities, attitudes are shifting. Culture is increasingly being seen not as an add-on, but as a fundamental part of placemaking.

“The most successful developments are the ones that see culture as part of the DNA of a place - not something added in later.”