In this episode of the CHART Talks podcast, we explore the pioneering world of architect Jan Gehl, a visionary in human-centric urban design, inspired by a question once posed to him: Why are architects not interested in people?—igniting his lifelong quest to reshape city planning. Gehl’s philosophy, honed through his groundbreaking book Life Between Buildings, has transformed public spaces in cities worldwide, from New York to Copenhagen. Joining him is Tyra Dokkedahl, director of Seriously Fun and co-initiator of Empathic Environments, whose work at the intersection of art, architecture, and urban culture explores the social and cultural aspects of public spaces.

Together, Gehl and Dokkedahl discuss the evolution of cities, the activism that’s shaped Gehl’s career, and his recent knighthood by the Queen of Denmark. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on public spaces, the impact of people watching, and what makes certain urban areas inviting while others fall short.