In preparation for their relocation to Downtown L.A., Gensler, one of the world's largest architectural firms, has already envisioned how to make the neighborhood a more energized, livable place. The firm, in partnership with three Cal Poly architecture students, has published a video showcasing their recommendations for the area. One such proposal is make the downtown car-free, pushing all parking to the perimeter, and replacing the overwhelming number of parking structures with cultural institutions, educational facilities, and housing.
Read full story at GOOD

More from the week in urbanism:

Underpass Park Will Change the City Forever
Toronto's innovative plan to build a park under a freeway overpass could transform the city's lower-east side, a formerly industrial "hole in the urban fabric."
Read full story at The Star

Atomic Amusements: Turning a Nuclear White Elephant into a Funfair
In Germany, the site of a never-realized nuclear power-plant has been converted into an amusement park run on renewable energy.
Read full story at Spiegel

S.F. Approves Treasure Island Plan
After much deliberation, the Board of Supervisors unanimously approved San Francisco's proposed Treasure Island development plan.
Read full story at S.F. Gate