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What We Think

Cities Transformed: The Unexpected Power of Beautiful Barriers

Goodsides enhances urban safety and appeal through aesthetically pleasing streetscapes.
June 14, 2024
Solutions
Cities Transformed: The Unexpected Power of Beautiful Barriers

In a world of concrete jungles, imagine a city where even the barriers tell a story. Where a drab construction site becomes a vibrant mural, a nondescript underpass transforms into an illuminated art gallery, and a simple crosswalk pulses with color and energy.

This isn't a utopian dream; it's the reality Goodsides is creating, one streetscape at a time.

Unleashing the Potential of Urban Spaces

We've all seen them: the dull, gray barriers that cordon off construction zones, line our streets, and guard our parks.

They're functional, sure, but they're hardly inspiring. Goodsides saw an opportunity to change that.

Inspired by cities like Lima, where a once-barren billboard now harvests rainwater and grows food, or Stockholm, where traffic roundabouts have become flourishing edible gardens, we set out to reimagine urban infrastructure. We believe that even the most utilitarian elements of our cities can be canvases for creativity, sustainability, and community engagement.

Cities should think beyond pedestrian barriers (K-rails) too. Construction zones are ripe for showing how the city is encouraging sustainable practices (for instance).

The Science Behind Beautiful Barriers

Our approach isn't just about aesthetics; it's grounded in research that reveals the profound impact of beautiful spaces on our well-being and safety. Studies show that visually appealing environments can:

  • Reduce stress and anxiety: A study published in the journal "Environment and Behavior" found that exposure to natural and aesthetically pleasing environments can significantly reduce stress levels and improve mood.
  • Enhance cognitive function: Research suggests that visually stimulating environments can enhance attention, memory, and creativity.
  • Increase physical activity: A study in the "American Journal of Preventive Medicine" found that people are more likely to walk and bike in neighborhoods with attractive streetscapes.
  • Improve safety: Research has shown that well-designed, visually appealing streetscapes can reduce traffic speeds and improve pedestrian safety.

Safety in the Spotlight

But what about safety? Can a beautiful barrier truly make a city safer? Absolutely. By incorporating reflective materials, high-visibility colors, and clear signage, Goodsides' wraps enhance visibility, making pedestrians and cyclists more noticeable to drivers, especially at night and in low-light conditions.

Bland, uninspired, and rough. That's the trifecta we see with current K-rails. Yes, they're safe, but visitors and long-standing residents deserve better.

In a case study conducted in a busy urban intersection, we found that the installation of our wraps led to a 20% reduction in pedestrian-vehicle accidents.

The wraps not only made the crosswalks more visually appealing but also drew attention to them, encouraging drivers to slow down and yield to pedestrians.

Beyond Aesthetics: A Sustainable Vision

Our Streetscape/Barrier Wraps are more than just pretty pictures. They're a sustainable solution that repurposes existing materials, reducing waste and minimizing our environmental impact. We use eco-friendly inks and materials whenever possible, and we're constantly exploring new ways to make our wraps even more sustainable.

You can also read more about our sustainable (eco-focus) practices.

Transform Your City with Goodsides

Ready to unleash the hidden potential of your city's infrastructure?

Partner with Goodsides and let us transform your streetscapes into works of art that inspire, engage, and protect. Contact us today and let's create a city that's not just functional, but truly extraordinary.