Sustainable Cities Strategy 2025–2035: Bielsko-Biała Design Lab (BBDL)

Introduction: This document presents a 10-year strategy for the BBDL.pl design lab (BB Design Lab) in Bielsko-Biała, focusing on implementing sustainable urban solutions in Poland and Europe. The main goal of the strategy is to shape creative, accessible, beautiful and happy cities , with particular emphasis on the city of Bielsko-Biała as a case study. The strategy responds to current urban trends and challenges, offers inspiring examples from Polish and European cities, formulates recommendations for local governments and businesses, and presents an action plan for BBDL and success measures. The document ends with a summary of the strategy in an accessible form, facilitating the communication of the main assumptions.

( File:Bielsko-Biała Downtown.jpg - Wikimedia Commons ) The centre of Bielsko-Biała from a bird's eye view – a city that, as part of the strategy, will become a living laboratory of sustainable urban innovations ( File:Bielsko-Biała Downtown.jpg - Wikimedia Commons ).

1. Trend and Challenge Analysis: Creative, Accessible, Beautiful and Happy Cities

The growing role of quality of life and sustainable development of cities: Both in Poland and throughout Europe, we observe a trend of putting the quality of life of residents at the center of urban policies. The National Urban Policy 2030 directly defines the main goal of urban development as improving the quality of life of residents through sustainable development ( Union of Polish Cities ) ( Union of Polish Cities ). This means moving away from purely economic indicators in favor of a more holistic approach, taking into account, among others, spatial order, social participation, sustainable mobility and environmental protection. Cities are to be friendly to residents and attractive to business , developing evenly and respecting social and climatic needs ( Union of Polish Cities ). In Europe, a similar vision is promoted by the New European Bauhaus (NEB) - an initiative combining beauty, sustainability and inclusiveness as pillars of the transformation of urban spaces. NEB emphasizes that even the smallest communities deserve spaces that improve the well-being and sense of belonging of residents , promoting sustainable, inclusive and aesthetic solutions adapted to local culture ( New European Bauhaus: beautiful, sustainable, together . - European Union ). Both Polish and European strategies emphasize the happiness and comfort of residents as a measure of a city's success.

Creative cities – economy of culture and innovation: Creativity is becoming a strategic development resource for cities. In Europe, since 2004+, the UNESCO Creative Cities Network has been operating, bringing together centres developing thanks to culture, art and creative industries ( UNESCO Creative Cities Network in Poland. Where to go and what to see? ). In Poland, this network already includes, among others, Krakow (literature) , Katowice (music) , Wrocław (literature) , Łódź (film) and Gdynia (film/design) ( UNESCO Creative Cities Network in Poland. Where to go and what to see? ). The status of a creative city means not only prestige, but above all an obligation to integrate culture and creative industries with development planning, building local talent and attracting investments based on innovation. This trend can also be seen in smaller centres – urban innovation laboratories (urban labs) and co-creation spaces are being created, where authorities, residents, artists and designers jointly develop solutions for the city. However, challenges include ensuring sustainable funding for cultural projects, preventing the “elitist” character of revitalised artistic districts, and linking creativity with other needs (e.g. job creation outside the cultural sector).

Accessible cities – inclusiveness and universal design: The ageing of European society and the growing awareness of the needs of people with disabilities mean that accessibility is becoming a key determinant of a modern city. More and more cities are implementing the principles of universal design – from threshold-free sidewalks and low-floor public transport to the digital accessibility of city services. The European Union supports these activities, among others, through the Access City Award competition, rewarding the most friendly cities for people with disabilities and seniors ( Access City Award 2024 – the winners | use: urban sustainability exchange | Metropolis ). Poland has its successes here: Warsaw won the Access City Award 2020 title thanks to the involvement of people with disabilities in the process of improving the accessibility of urban space ( Warsaw wins 2020 Access City Award - Accessible Tour ). Łódź took 2nd place in Europe in the 2024 edition, implementing accessibility standards in all city investments ( Access City Award 2024 – the winners | use: urban sustainability exchange | Metropolis ), and Gdynia won 3rd place in 2021 for systemic infrastructure improvements ( 2021 Access City Award – the winners! | use ). Another trend is to perceive accessibility more broadly – ​​as social inclusiveness. This means designing cities friendly to various groups of residents : children (playgrounds also friendly to the disabled), the elderly (benches, clear signage, proximity to services), minorities (taking into account various cultural needs). The challenge is to integrate these requirements in each investment (so that accessibility is a standard, not an addition) and to train designers and officials in this area.

Beautiful cities – aesthetics and spatial order: After the period of political transformation, when the development of Polish cities was sometimes chaotic (large-format advertisements, uncontrolled development), there is growing pressure to improve the aesthetics of public space . Among other things, a landscape act was introduced, giving local governments tools to combat advertising chaos – a pioneer here was Kraków, which was the first city in Poland to organize the space of the city center through the Cultural Park ( A happy city is one that brings people together - Urbnews.pl ). Today, aesthetics are treated not as a luxury, but as an element of well-being: an orderly, well-kept environment affects the sense of pride of residents and their mental health . The European New Bauhaus directly speaks of "beauty" as one of its pillars, encouraging the combination of modern design with heritage and nature ( New European Bauhaus: beautiful, sustainable, together. - European Union ) ( New European Bauhaus: beautiful, sustainable, together. - European Union ). Trends include: designing green spaces (pocket parks, rain gardens), revitalizing historical buildings with new functions (e.g. industrial factories for cultural centers), and using high-quality architecture in public buildings and housing. The challenge is to maintain the identity of the place – local beauty should result from the context (history, landscape), which requires cooperation with local communities and experts. In Poland, patching up neglect also remains a problem: many housing estates require aesthetic modernization, post-communist spaces – thoughtful redesign. However, social pressure on spatial order is growing, as can be seen from grassroots initiatives (e.g. urban movements fighting for greenery and limiting development in parks).

Happy cities – well-being and satisfaction of residents: Increasingly, the success of a city is measured not only by GDP, but also by the happiness of its residents . The concept of a “Happy City” (popularized by Charles Montgomery, among others) is gaining recognition in urban policy. A happy city is one that brings people together – it facilitates social interactions, integrates different groups and gives a sense of community ( A happy city is one that brings people together - Urbnews.pl ). Research shows that the urban layout and transport have a direct impact on satisfaction: cities that take space away from cars in favor of pedestrians and cyclists increase the activity of residents, neighborly contacts and a sense of security ( A happy city is one that brings people together - Urbnews.pl ). Scandinavian cities are considered the happiest in the world - according to the Happy City 2024 index, Aarhus (Denmark) is in first place, achieving excellent results in the quality of management, education, health and culture ( Ranking of the happiest cities 2024. There are six metropolises from Poland ) ( Ranking of the happiest cities 2024. There are six metropolises from Poland ). Zurich and Berlin also rank high thanks to the combination of prosperity with care for the environment ( Ranking of the happiest cities 2024. There are six metropolises from Poland ). In these cities, almost 95-97% of residents declare their life satisfaction ( The friendliest cities in Europe. Tourists chose 10 locations ). In Poland, the idea of ​​measuring happiness is gradually making its way through – for example, 6 Polish cities have already been included in the global Happy City Index 2024 ranking, with Gdynia at the highest (97th position out of 250 cities) ( Ranking of the happiest cities 2024. There are six metropolises from Poland ). Nationwide satisfaction surveys (e.g. "Social Diagnosis") show that social relations, clean air, access to greenery and free time culture have a strong impact on the declared happiness of residents. Challenges for cities include, among others, combating air pollution, traffic jams (traffic stress), social isolation in large bedroom estates and ensuring that residents can meet their higher-level needs (self-development, entertainment, participation in culture). The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of mental health in city strategies – hence the growing emphasis on green areas, recreation, housing that provides decent conditions (space, access to light and balconies) and the animation of local community life.

In summary, cities of the future in Poland and Europe must harmoniously combine creativity (innovation, culture), accessibility (for all groups), aesthetics (spatial order, greenery) and the happiness of residents (well-being, integration) . The key is an integrated approach: sustainable solutions that simultaneously stimulate the creative economy, improve everyday living conditions (e.g. through barrier-free infrastructure), beautify the surroundings and build social bonds. This philosophy also guides the BBDL strategy in Bielsko-Biała - using design and social innovation to develop practical solutions that make cities better places to live.

2. Case studies: inspiring solutions in European and Polish cities

Below are examples of specific initiatives and projects that implement the ideas of a creative, accessible, beautiful and happy city. Both European and Polish experiences provide valuable inspiration:

Inspiring examples from European cities

( Works - PublicSpace ) Children playing in the street of the Poblenou superblock in Barcelona – the reclaimed urban space benefits the social life and health of its residents ( Superblocks are having positive effects on health and well-being | Info Barcelona | Barcelona City Council ).

  • Copenhagen (Denmark) – a city of bicycles and spaces for people: The capital of Denmark is considered one of the happiest cities in the world, which is closely linked to its transport and spatial policy. More than 60% of Copenhageners commute to work or school by bike , using an extensive network of safe routes ( Bike Lanes Promote Happiness, Health and Financial Stability - Flagpole ). Prioritizing cycling and walking (so-called “Copenhagenize”) brings multiple benefits: residents are healthier, less stressed, interact more often on the streets, and the city emits less pollution. Studies show that bicycles are an important factor in Copenhagen being considered one of the happiest cities in the world ( Bike Lanes Promote Happiness, Health and Financial Stability - Flagpole ) – people walking or cycling have the highest satisfaction with commuting ( Bike Lanes Promote Happiness, Health and Financial Stability - Flagpole ). The city has also consistently introduced traffic-calmed zones and high-quality public spaces (e.g. the famous Strøget street – one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe). Copenhagen's approach shows that sustainable mobility, a healthy lifestyle and the happiness of its residents go hand in hand. Cycling infrastructure has also become an element of the city's aesthetics (characteristic bridges and footbridges for cyclists) and the city's creative identity.

( File:Copenhagen Cyclists (19200075809).jpg - Wikimedia Commons ) An everyday sight on the streets of Copenhagen - a crowd of cyclists on cycle paths. The extensive cycling infrastructure translates into the satisfaction of residents and global happiness rankings ( Bike Lanes Promote Happiness, Health and Financial Stability - Flagpole ).

  • Aarhus (Denmark) – a comprehensive approach to the happiness of the city: Aarhus, a city of ~300,000, won 1st place in the Happy City 2024 index as a city offering an extremely high standard of living ( Ranking of the happiest cities 2024. There are six metropolises from Poland ) ( Ranking of the happiest cities 2024. There are six metropolises from Poland ). The key turned out to be the effective combination of modern technologies with traditional management solutions – Aarhus invests in e-services and innovations, but at the same time takes care of the basics: education, health care, culture ( Ranking of the happiest cities 2024. There are six metropolises from Poland ). The authorities managed to create synergy between a developed economy and care for the environment and residents. The emphasis was placed on sustainable transport , clean air and green areas, which gives residents tangible benefits (access to parks, clean environment). At the same time, Aarhus includes residents in co-management – ​​they have an influence on local decisions, which builds trust and a sense of agency. The case of Aarhus shows that urban happiness requires a cross-sectional approach : neither high income nor even beautiful surroundings are enough if good management, social capital and inclusiveness are lacking.

  • Paris (France) – “15-minute city” and aesthetics of common areas: In recent years, Paris has been implementing the idea of ​​a polycentric city, where every resident has key services within a 15-minute walk or bike ride. The authorities have significantly reduced car traffic in the city center (e.g., gardens will be created on a large part of the Champs-Élysées), investing in public transport and bicycle infrastructure. At the same time, the aesthetics and functionality of common areas are taken care of – as part of the “Reinventing Paris” program, architectural competitions are organized for the revitalization of neglected places (e.g., old warehouses converted into cultural centers). Paris shows how to combine the beauty of the city with ecology and the comfort of life of its residents. As a result, the “happiness” of Parisians is also improving – decreasing traffic jams, more greenery and local services in districts translate into a better work-life balance. Challenges remain (e.g., gentrification of some areas), but the direction sets a pattern for other European metropolises.

Inspiring examples from Polish cities

  • Warsaw – commitment to accessibility and pedestrian space: As the largest Polish city, Warsaw is implementing many pioneering solutions. As part of the accessibility program, the capital city involved people with various disabilities in city audits and investment consultations, which resulted in a rapid improvement in the standard of accessibility of public places ( Warsaw wins 2020 Access City Award - Accessible Tour ). Thanks to this, Warsaw won the European Access City Award 2020 competition ( Warsaw wins 2020 Access City Award - Accessible Tour ). Examples of activities include the elimination of architectural barriers on hundreds of pedestrian crossings (lowered curbs, sound signals), modernization of the old town taking into account the needs of seniors, introduction of a voice assistant in public transport or a city taxi service for people with limited mobility. At the same time, Warsaw is investing in public spaces for people – it has turned some streets into promenades (like ul. Chmielna periodically), creates new city squares (Plac Centralny in front of the Palace of Culture) and greening the center (Plac Pięciu Rogów project). These activities not only improve the aesthetics of the city, but also build community – residents are more willing to spend time in such a friendly environment.

  • Łódź – creative revitalization and woonerfs: Łódź, having a difficult post-industrial heritage, focused on creativity and improving the street space . It was the first in Poland to introduce the so-called woonerfs on a large scale – woonerfs included ul. 6 Sierpnia and Traugutta, transformed into garden streets with limited car traffic, small architecture and greenery. Woonerfs became the city's new "living rooms", increasing the attractiveness of the center and integrating residents (concerts and fairs are held there in the summer). Łódź also gained UNESCO recognition as a City of Film , developing creative industries based on its film history (film school, studios) – this attracts investors and artists. The revitalization of the center of Łódź has a holistic character: in addition to beautifying the streets, the city invests in factories transformed for cultural functions (e.g. EC1 – old CHP plants as a center of science and art) and builds community through regranting programs for NGOs and neighborhood activities. The result is a slow change in the image of Łódź into a creative and life-friendly city , although social issues remain a challenge (e.g. revitalization must go hand in hand with solving the problems of poverty in some districts).

  • Krakow – landscape protection and culture at your fingertips: Krakow has always been a cultural capital thanks to its rich heritage, but it is currently also trying to improve the daily comfort of its residents. The introduction of the Old Town Cultural Park (the first in Poland) cleared the city centre of excess signs and advertisements, restoring the historical beauty of the streets and buildings ( A happy city is one that brings people together - Urbnews.pl ). This was followed by further steps: limiting the traffic of tourist melexes, developing tram transport so that the old town is not congested, and new parks (e.g. Reduta Park in Prądnik). Krakow, as a UNESCO City of Literature, organises many cultural events available to all residents (poetry night, book fairs) - this builds creative identity and local pride. At the same time, the city remembers the need for happiness on a housing estate scale: the civic budget finances playgrounds, outdoor gyms, community gardens. After years of focusing on tourism, Krakow is turning its attention to its residents, so that they feel happy at home – hence the plans to expand the clean transport zone, further planting of greenery and housing programs (cheaper apartments for rent so that young Krakow residents do not have to move out of the city).

  • Gdynia – a happy city on the Polish coast: Gdynia regularly ranks high in quality of life rankings in Poland. In the global Happy City Index, it was classified in the “silver” happiness category ( Ranking of the happiest cities 2024. There are six metropolises from Poland ), which confirms the effectiveness of city activities. For years, Gdynia has been investing in sustainable transport (modern trolleybus fleet, bicycle path system), as well as in accessibility – in 2021 it received the Access City Award (3rd place in the EU) for facilities for people with disabilities ( 2021 Access City Award – the winners! | use ). The nature of Gdynia as a relatively young port city favors innovation: there is a thriving urban planning laboratory UrbanLab Gdynia , within which residents and experts jointly develop solutions, e.g. in the field of adaptation to climate change or activation of peripheral districts. The city strongly focuses on education and culture – there is the Design Center, the emigration museum and the famous film festival, which adds an aspect of creativity. Thanks to its clean environment (the Baltic Sea, cliffs, forests) and investments in the quality of space (e.g. a new promenade, modernization of the city center with respect for the modernist heritage), Gdynia is considered a city of happy residents . The example of Gdynia shows that even without the status of the capital, it is possible to systematically build a brand of a friendly, beautiful and innovative city.

  • Bielsko-Biała – local innovations and design for the city: Bielsko-Biała, although smaller than the above-mentioned, also implements inspiring projects. Thanks to the activities of the People-Innovations-Design Foundation (FLID) and BBDL, the city is experimenting with design that engages the community. An example is the 11.11 Project – an urban experiment to revive 11 Listopada Street (the main promenade) through social design ( arting project - industrial design competition - Arting Project ). Since 2022, prototyping activities have been carried out there, new street functions, urban furniture and forms of activity, to restore this place to its former glory and attract residents. In parallel , industrial design competitions "Arting Project" are held under slogans related to the city (e.g. the 2024 edition had the theme "happy city" ( arting project - industrial design competition - Arting Project )). These initiatives engage local artists, students and entrepreneurs to think about how to creatively solve urban challenges . Bielsko-Biała is also implementing accessibility solutions – for example, it is modernizing the space around the train station and Sułkowski Castle, taking into account the needs of people with limited mobility – and is investing in aesthetics: it is revitalizing the Biała River boulevards and restoring historic villas (with the support of Norwegian funds). Although the scale is smaller, Bielsko is trying to draw on the best practices of larger cities, adapting them to local conditions. Thanks to this, it is gradually becoming a "small big city" – comfortable, beautiful and full of creativity .

The above case studies show that transformation towards a creative, accessible, beautiful and happy city is possible in various contexts – from global metropolises, through regional cities, to medium-sized centres like Bielsko-Biała. The common denominator of success is a long-term vision and the involvement of many stakeholders : authorities, local community, business and non-governmental organisations. The conclusions from these examples will be used to formulate recommendations and a plan for BBDL.

3. Recommendations for city authorities and businesses: effective implementation of sustainable solutions

In order for Polish cities (including Bielsko-Biała) to successfully become more creative, accessible, beautiful and happy, cooperation between the public, private and social sectors is essential. Below are the key recommendations – actions and principles that local governments and businesses can undertake to accelerate sustainable urban transformation:

  1. Considering quality of life as the overarching goal of city strategies: It is recommended that all city development plans focus on improving the quality of life of residents – in the spirit of the National Urban Policy 2030 ( Association of Polish Cities ) ( Association of Polish Cities ). This means setting goals concerning, for example, increasing residents' satisfaction with public services, reducing time spent in traffic jams, improving the sense of security, and not only economic indicators. Budgets and investments should be assessed in terms of their impact on the well-being of residents (e.g. HIA analyses – Health Impact Assessment for large projects).

  2. Social participation and co-created design: City authorities should systematically involve residents, non-governmental organizations, seniors, and youth in decision-making processes – from consultations on development plans to civic budgets. Experience shows that residents’ involvement in city management increases the effectiveness of actions and social trust ( Union of Polish Cities ). It is recommended to create accessibility advisory councils (as in Warsaw), youth city councils, and citizen panels on important issues (e.g. climate, transport). Cities can use modern tools such as online platforms to collect ideas and opinions. Urban design using the charrette and living lab method will allow combining expert knowledge with the ideas of space users.

  3. Investments in accessibility and integration infrastructure: Local governments must treat accessibility as a standard for every investment. Every new sidewalk, public utility building, bus stop or office website should be designed in accordance with the principle of universal design. It is worth drawing on good practices - e.g. developing local accessibility standards following the example of Łódź (where they were implemented in all city projects ( Access City Award 2024 - the winners | use: urban sustainability exchange | Metropolis )). In addition, it is recommended to invest in places that serve intergenerational and social integration : local activity centers, neighborhood houses, parks adapted for both young and old. Partnership with business can help - e.g. developers could co-finance neighborhood community centers or open playgrounds also available to local residents from outside the estate when building housing estates.

  4. Sustainable mobility priority: It is recommended that cities boldly implement policies that limit the negative effects of excessive car traffic – as many cities in Europe do (Barcelona, ​​Paris, Copenhagen). Creating clean transport zones, developing public transport, cycling and pedestrian infrastructure should go hand in hand with calming traffic in housing estates. As examples show, "giving the streets back to people" increases the happiness of residents ( A happy city is one that connects people - Urbnews.pl ), improves health and revitalizes local entrepreneurship (more walkers means more customers in local shops ( Bike Lanes Promote Happiness, Health and Financial Stability - Flagpole )). Authorities should also work with companies on micrologistics solutions (e.g. delivery points on the outskirts to limit the entry of delivery vehicles into the centers). The goal is a city where moving around is safe, convenient and ecological for everyone.

  5. Aesthetics and spatial order as a common matter: It is recommended to develop local aesthetic codes or landscape protection plans (following the example of Krakow ( A happy city is one that brings people together - Urbnews.pl )), which will define the rules for siting advertisements, small architecture, facade colors in historic areas, etc. The authorities should strictly enforce these rules for the good of the common appearance of the city. Education is also important - e.g. competitions for the most beautiful renovation of a tenement house, subsidy programs for renovation of monuments for housing communities. Public space is supposed to build pride and trust of residents in their place of residence , therefore any neglected squares, wastelands or temporary parking lots should be transformed into tidy places - even at a small cost (planting greenery, murals, city furniture). Business can also get involved: companies can adopt fragments of space (e.g. a bank sponsoring the renovation of a pocket park in exchange for a discreet indication of patronage).

  6. Supporting creative industries and cultural sectors: For a city to be truly creative , local authorities should actively support the development of creative industries (design, film, music, games, crafts). Recommended actions include creating clusters and hubs of creativity – e.g. making post-factory spaces available for workshops, creative startup incubators, fab labs. The city can initiate festivals that will become a recognizable brand (such as Łódź Design Festival or Gdynia Design Days). It is worth introducing programs developing creative competences in young people in local education. Business, in turn, should recognize the economic potential of creativity – invest in place-making (arranging attractive spaces around their office buildings or shopping centers with elements of art), patronize cultural events, and work with designers on the quality of urban product design (e.g. urban furniture, bus shelters). Culture and creativity can be the driving force of the city's economy , while giving residents reasons for pride and joy.

  7. Public-private partnership in shaping the city: Authorities and business should act complementarily. For example, developers implementing large housing projects can participate in the costs of social infrastructure - as examples from Warsaw have shown, cooperation between a developer and the city can result in improving the road system and public spaces around the investment ( How are developers changing the landscape of Polish cities? - rynekpierwotny.pl ). Companies can also get involved in revitalization - increasingly private investors undertake the renovation of historic buildings and give them a new function, which improves the aesthetics of the area and enriches the city's offer ( How are developers changing the landscape of Polish cities? - rynekpierwotny.pl ). It is recommended to create a forum for dialogue between the city and local business (regular meetings, development councils) to coordinate activities and work out beneficial solutions together (e.g. common placemaking standards for new office buildings - so that they are open to residents, not fenced off). The synergy of the public and private sectors will accelerate the transformation - "we create the city together" should be the guiding principle.

  8. Monitoring and basing decisions on data: Finally, it is recommended to implement a system of measures and indicators (more on this in point 5 of the strategy) that will allow you to track progress in the area of ​​sustainable development. Cities can use ready-made frameworks, such as ISO 37120 Sustainable Community Development – ​​Indicators of urban services and quality of life, or benchmarks such as the Ranking of Polish Sustainable Cities . Regular monitoring of, for example, air quality, satisfaction of residents in surveys, availability of services, number of cultural events, etc. will allow the authorities to draw conclusions and correct actions . Business should also report their impact on the city (local CSR) – for example, shopping centers could report how many free events they organize for the community, and developers – how much public space they create in their projects. The transparency of this data supports healthy competition between cities for the title of happier and more sustainable.

These recommendations create a comprehensive program of changes. Their implementation requires political will, interdepartmental cooperation in offices, active residents and openness of business to shared responsibility for the city . Bielsko-Biała, with its smaller scale, can become a testing ground for applying these recommendations in practice – with the support of BBDL as an expert laboratory of urban design.

4. Action plan for BBDL.pl: laboratory involvement in urban transformations

In order for Bielsko-Biała Design Lab to effectively support the transformation of the city (and more broadly – ​​promote good practices in Poland and Europe), a multi-year action plan is needed. Below is a plan divided into stages, taking into account the role of BBDL as an initiator, coordinator and popularizer of sustainable urban innovations.

Phase 1 (first 1–2 years): Building the foundations and piloting

  • Local partnerships: Establishing close cooperation with the Bielsko-Biała City Office (including BBDL representatives in the city planning teams), with local universities (Atheneum Bielsko-Biała, Academy of Technology and Humanities) and NGOs operating in the city area. Formalization of a cooperation agreement for a creative and accessible city.
  • Diagnosis and research: Diagnosis of the city's needs and potential in four areas (creativity, accessibility, aesthetics, well-being). BBDL, in cooperation with sociologists and urban planners, can conduct research on users of space (surveys, observations) and accessibility audits. The results will be published in the form of a knowledge compendium – following the model of studies already conducted by BBDL (e.g. the compendium of the miasto__kreatywne project containing the results of research and analyses ( miasto__kreatywne – BB__Design__Lab )).
  • Pilot projects: Launching 1–2 pilot micro-urban projects for quick improvements. For example: temporarily creating a green square in a neglected square with recycled street furniture and plantings (testing a “parklet”), or transforming a section of the street into a pedestrian zone on a trial basis during the holidays. BBDL, in cooperation with the city, will implement these pilots using the tactical urbanism method to gather feedback from residents on the proposed changes.
  • Communication and education: Launching an online platform (e.g. a blog or magazine on the BBDL website) documenting activities and explaining the idea of ​​sustainable design. Organizing a series of open lectures and workshops for the residents of Bielsko-Biała – e.g. the Happy City Academy , where experts will talk about the experiences of Copenhagen, Barcelona and Polish cities. The aim is to build social support and awareness.

Stage 2 (3–5 years): Implementation of key projects and expansion of business

  • Flagship city project: In the middle of the strategy period, BBDL should implement one larger project changing a part of the city. A natural candidate is the continuation and escalation of activities on 11 Listopada Street – permanently transforming it into an attractive promenade in accordance with the developed ideas (e.g. recreation zones, small architecture, space for street artists) ( Arting project - industrial design competition - Arting Project ). BBDL can act as a project coordinator: from the concept competition, through prototyping (which is already underway), to consulting on the implementation of the investment by the city. The success of this project will become a showcase of BBDL's approach.
  • “Happy City – Bielsko-Biała” Programme: BBDL initiative in cooperation with city authorities – a programme covering a package of activities in all districts, inspired by, for example, the idea of ​​a 15-minute city or “happy city”. Programme components: creation of so-called neighbourhood zones in housing estates (benches, greenery, mini playgrounds integrating residents), grant competition for grassroots cultural and ecological projects (e.g. community garden, mural), installation of elements improving accessibility (ramps, Braille signage) at key points. BBDL can help design these interventions and train local leaders on how to maintain them.
  • Scale extension – regional network: At this stage, BBDL can go beyond Bielsko-Biała, initiating a cooperation network of sub-regional cities (e.g. Cieszyn, Żywiec, Czechowice-Dziedzice) interested in similar changes. Organizing a conference or forum “Creative and Happy Cities of Podbeskidzie” will encourage the exchange of good practices. The laboratory could provide advisory services to local governments – e.g. help with conducting social consultations or designing a friendly square. This will expand the influence of BBDL and provide additional experience.
  • Continuation of competitions and events: BBDL together with FLID will continue and develop cyclical events, such as the Arting project competition (which inspires to look at the needs and challenges of cities ( arting project - industrial design competition - Arting Project )) or urban design exhibitions. The plan assumes expanding the formula - e.g. inviting designers from other European cities to participate, so that Bielsko-Biała becomes a place of dialogue about design for cities . In parallel, a magazine (print/online) could be published summarizing the results of these competitions and presenting the most interesting ideas.

Stage 3 (6–10 years): Consolidation of changes and promotion on a national/European scale

  • Evaluation and adjustment of the strategy: After ~5-6 years, BBDL, in cooperation with the city, will review the achievements (based on the metrics from point 5). It will identify which actions have brought the greatest effect (e.g. increased satisfaction of residents in the center thanks to the promenade on November 11, improved accessibility of public buildings, etc.), and where there are gaps. On this basis, it will update the action plan for the following years, correcting the directions.
  • Scaling good practices: Solutions developed in Bielsko-Biała can be implemented in other cities . BBDL should actively share knowledge – e.g. develop a handbook of good practices “Happy City – experiences from Bielsko-Biała 2025–2030” and send it to local governments in Poland. It is also possible to establish partnerships with cities in Europe (e.g. within the framework of EU programs, Urbact, New European Bauhaus Lab) and export some ideas. BBDL can become a training center – invite officials and activists from other cities for study visits to see implemented projects (promenades, woonerfs, creative hubs) live.
  • International initiatives and networks: In the perspective of 10 years, it would be worthwhile for Bielsko-Biała to join prestigious networks and initiatives through BBDL: for example, it could apply to join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (design category?), the network of learning cities, or at least become the leader of the national network of medium-sized cities in the area of ​​sustainable design. BBDL could co-organize an international conference on urban design or an architecture festival for the community. This would not only raise the profile of Bielsko-Biała, but also ensure an influx of new ideas from outside.
  • Strategic consulting for the city: After 10 years, BBDL should be an institution experienced enough to become a permanent strategic advisor to the city authorities in the creation of official planning documents (development strategies, spatial studies). Thanks to this, the values ​​of creativity, accessibility, aesthetics and happiness of residents will be permanently embedded in the city policies of Bielsko-Biała. Perhaps the laboratory could even co-create a new city brand (“Bielsko-Biała – a happy city” as a promotional slogan supported by real achievements).

The role of BBDL: In this entire plan, Bielsko-Biała Design Lab plays several roles at the same time: a think tank (providing knowledge, analyses, innovations) , a facilitator (connecting stakeholders, conducting workshops, consultations) , a designer (creating specific spatial concepts, prototypes) and a promoter (promoting ideas and successes) . Thanks to its location in the structures of the LID Foundation and its links with local institutions, BBDL has the flexibility of operation: it can conduct research projects, educational activities, but also engage the community through less formal actions. It is crucial to ensure the continuity of financing and the team - that is why the plan provides for, among other things, the implementation of projects from external funds (EU grants, Norwegian funds, sponsoring of local businesses).

In summary, the BBDL action plan assumes that within a decade Bielsko-Biała will become a model “city laboratory” where new ideas in the field of sustainable urbanism will be tested and implemented with the participation of residents. By 2035, the city should be able to boast several model spaces (promenade, woonerf, creative center) and significant improvement in quality of life indicators. BBDL, in turn, will strengthen its position as a valued center of competence, with an influence reaching beyond the region.

5. Success metrics and indicators to monitor strategy progress

In order to assess the effectiveness of the implemented strategy, it is necessary to define measurable success metrics . Below is a set of proposed indicators assigned to individual strategy goals (creative, accessible, beautiful, happy city). Regular monitoring of these indicators (e.g. every year or two) will allow to track progress and correct actions if necessary.

Creative city – indicators:

  • Share of the creative sector in the city's economy: percentage of people working in creative industries (design, IT, culture) in the total number of employees; number of creative sector companies registered in the city. Goal (10 years): e.g. doubling this share (%).
  • Cultural initiatives and events: number of large cultural events/festivals in the city per year; attendance at these events; number of new cultural institutions or creative centres created in a decade. Target: a steady upward trend, e.g. +50% events per year vs starting point.
  • Innovative projects together with residents: number of co-design workshops (co-creation) conducted with residents; number of residents' ideas implemented by the city (e.g. from the civic budget). Goal: at least several co-created projects per year, increase in the percentage of implemented civic ideas.
  • Recognition of the city's creative brand: e.g. joining an international network (UNESCO Creative Cities or other) – this is a binary indicator of achievement; number of publications in industry media about Bielsko-Biała's projects. Goal: obtaining membership in at least one network or a national/EU distinction for creative activities.

Accessible city – indicators:

  • Barrier-free infrastructure: percentage of public transport stops that are fully accessible (low platforms, audio information), percentage of low-floor rolling stock; number of kilometres of pavements renovated with barrier removal per year. Goal: 100% of stops and vehicles accessible within 10 years; removal of identified barriers within the first 5 years.
  • Accessible public buildings: percentage of public buildings (offices, community centres, schools) with an accessibility certificate (e.g. an auditor confirms adaptation for people with various disabilities). Goal: 100% accessible public buildings.
  • Digitally accessible city services: percentage of the main services of the office available online in a user-friendly way (UX, meeting WCAG standards for people with disabilities). Goal: most (e.g. 90%) of official matters can be handled remotely; city service meeting WCAG 2.1 AA requirements.
  • Residents' satisfaction with the city's accessibility: periodic survey among people with disabilities and seniors – e.g. % of respondents who assess the accessibility of public space as good or very good. Goal: improve the satisfaction index by X percentage points in 10 years.

Beautiful city – indicators:

  • Spatial order and street aesthetics: number of adopted local plans including aesthetic standards (e.g. advertising restrictions); decrease in the number of complaints from residents about illegal advertising; Goal: full coverage of the city centre with plans taking into account spatial order, reduction of violations to a minimum.
  • Urban greenery: green area availability index – % of residents with a park/square within 300 m of their home; green area per capita (m²) ( Natural and climatic indicators of sustainable urban development ). Goal: increase both indicators (e.g. +20% green area per capita).
  • Revitalisation and renovation: number of renovated tenement house facades (e.g. thanks to subsidies) per year; number of revitalised post-industrial areas developed for new purposes. Goal: revitalisation of all key facilities indicated in the strategy by 2035; annual permanent programme of at least X facades to be renovated.
  • Aesthetics of public spaces: assessment in a survey of residents – e.g. % of residents agreeing with the statement "my city is well-kept and aesthetic". Goal: increase positive assessments by a specified value (e.g. from 50% to 80%).

Happy city – indicators:

  • General satisfaction with life in the city: periodic sociological survey – percentage of residents declaring satisfaction with life in the city in general. (Eurostat conducts such surveys for large cities – e.g. the percentage of satisfied people in Gdańsk was 96% ( In this Polish city people are the happiest. Satisfaction with ... ) – Bielsko can take inspiration from such questions). Goal: achieving satisfaction at the level of the best cities in Poland, e.g. >90% satisfied.
  • Social activity: turnout in the participatory budget (percentage of residents taking part in the vote); number of active neighborhood councils/neighborhood organizations. Goal: increase the turnout of BOs, e.g. to 20% (indicating involvement), active neighborhood councils in all districts.
  • Health and recreation: hard indicators – average life expectancy of residents; share of people actively practicing sports (e.g. % of residents regularly using municipal sports facilities, running paths, etc.). Goal: extending life expectancy by X years, increasing the percentage of physically active people.
  • Local Happiness Index: it is possible to build a local index of city happiness based on several components (income, health, social relations, free time, safety). Tracking its value year to year. Goal: constant growth of the index and placing Bielsko-Biała at the top of sustainable city rankings in Poland (e.g. advancement in the Arcadis Sustainable Cities Ranking or others).

Digital support for monitoring: It is recommended to create a publicly available city dashboard (e.g. on the Bielsko-Biała City Hall website) presenting these indicators – for transparency and increased trust. Residents could track in real time, for example, the level of pollution, progress in achieving goals (counters of renovated crossings, etc.). It is also a motivational tool for the authorities and project partners.

Success metrics should not be treated rigidly – ​​it is important to refine them after a few years based on the collected data (e.g. add new indicators if it turns out that certain aspects have not been captured). The general idea, however, is to measure what residents really care about : whether they feel better in their city, whether they use its offer, whether the space is improving. The numbers must go hand in hand with a qualitative assessment (which is why interviews or resident panels supplementing dry data will be valuable). The numerical goals set above are ambitious, but achievable over a decade if the strategy is implemented consistently.

6. Strategy Summary Presentation

Mission: To make Bielsko-Biała and other Polish cities more creative, accessible, beautiful and happy places to live in the next 10 years, through sustainable, citizen-oriented design.

1. Trends and challenges: Cities must respond to contemporary changes – the growing importance of quality of life (happiness of residents), the need for social integration (accessibility for all), preserving the aesthetics and identity of the place and using the potential of local creativity. Polish urban policy and EU initiatives (e.g. New European Bauhaus ( New European Bauhaus: beautiful, sustainable, together. - European Union )) indicate the direction: sustainable development combining people's well-being, innovation and beauty of space .

2. Inspirations from other cities: Successful examples show what works:

3. Recommendations for the city and business:

  • Let’s put people first: Every planning decision should ask “how will this affect the quality of life of residents?” ( Union of Polish Cities ).
  • Let’s design the future together: Including residents in planning (consultations, participatory budget) gives better ideas and acceptance ( Association of Polish Cities ).
  • Accessibility is standard: A city without barriers is friendlier to everyone – let’s invest in elevators, ramps, Braille information, accessible transport ( Warsaw wins 2020 Access City Award - Accessible Tour ).
  • Greenery and aesthetics are not a luxury, but a need: Clean, green and tidy urban space improves the mood and health of residents - let's take care of parks, squares and advertising order ( A happy city is one that brings people together - Urbnews.pl ).
  • Culture and innovation drive development: Let's support artistic events, creative industries and urban innovation labs – they attract people and ideas.
  • Public-private partnership: Let's invite business to share responsibility for the city (e.g. a developer builds a section of a road, a company adopts a park) ( How do developers change the landscape of Polish cities? - rynekpierwotny.pl ) - it pays off for everyone.
  • Let's measure progress: Let's establish clear indicators (resident satisfaction, air quality, number of barriers) and hold them publicly accountable.

4. The role of BBDL (Bielsko-Biała Design Lab):
BBDL will be a catalyst for change in Bielsko-Biała. As a design laboratory:

  • conducts research and workshops with residents (e.g. on how to improve a given housing estate),
  • advises the city on projects (e.g. the new promenade on November 11 – how to arrange it to make it attractive ( Arting project - industrial design competition – Arting Project )),
  • pilots innovations (rapid prototyping of solutions in the field),
  • disseminates knowledge (events, publications) about sustainable design. Thanks to a phased plan (first pilots, then broader programs, finally dissemination), BBDL will become a center of competence and a good spirit of the city’s transformation .

5. Success – how will we know it?:
The city will be different in 10 years:

  • Happier – >90% of residents say they enjoy living here; Bielsko-Biała moves up in quality of life rankings.
  • More beautiful and green – renovated tenement houses, fewer advertisements in the old town, more greenery (pocket parks, trees along the streets).
  • Accessible to everyone – fully low-floor public transport, offices and public spaces without barriers; the city can boast of awards for accessibility (like Warsaw and Łódź before).
  • Creative and innovative – there are several creativity centres (e.g. in a converted factory), annual design and urban art festivals attract people from all over the country, local companies draw on design thinking.
  • Socially integrated – residents participate in decisions (high turnout in the civic budget), neighbourhood life flourishes (e.g. district festivals, community gardens).

These changes will be measurable in metrics (described in point 5), but above all, they will be felt every day – in the smiles of passers-by, in the pride in being part of the city, in the new opportunities that the city will create for its people.

6. Final message: The BBDL strategy for Bielsko-Biała is a vision of a city that harmoniously combines tradition with modernity, aesthetics with functionality, and development with empathy . A city where design is not art for art's sake, but a tool to improve the life of every resident. The implementation of this strategy will make Bielsko-Biała a model example for other Polish and European cities, proving that even a medium-sized center can become a beacon of sustainable urbanism - a city that is creative, accessible, beautiful and happy at the same time. Together - the authorities, community, business and BBDL - we can achieve this vision. It is time to start transforming the city today, with a better tomorrow for all of us in mind.