We connect and inspire New Yorkers to design, build and care for a better city.

Current Initiatives

Next New York

Rewire
New York City must reshape its buildings and public spaces as engines for a climate positive city.
Forefront

Free to Grow
Our eighth Forefront Fellowship inspires adults to center young people in the built environment.
Community Design

The Local Center
A new community design network in partnership with the Association for Neighborhood & Housing Development
Special Projects

Public Works
Public Works sparks conversations with civic leaders on built environment initiatives shaping the public good.
Special Projects

New City Critics
In our writers fellowship with The Architectural League, we seek to empower a new generation of urban critics.
Global Exchange

Big Swings
What can New York learn from cities taking “big swings” to confront their housing crises? 

Upcoming Events

06.05.24

Nature-Inclusive Neighborhoods

Event Rewire
Join us for a roundtable discussion on biodiversity as a foundation for good neighborhood design with Zenobia Meckley, Qiana Mickie, Myles Davis and Alejandro Vasquez.
06.13.24

Free To Grow Capstone

Event Free to Grow
Join the 2023-2024 Forefront Fellows to explore new projects that center youth in co-creating liberatory spaces.

News

Forum News

Urban Design Forum Is Thrilled to Announce Five New Members to the Board of Directors
Please join us in giving our newest board members a warm welcome!
Posted — March 22, 2024
FeaturesLocal Center

Practice Notes: On Coming Together When We Don’t Have All the Answers
Martha Snow reflects on the latest midpoint shareout for Local Center projects and their work reclaiming public spaces.
Posted — March 20, 2024
Forum News

Introducing the Forefront Residency
We’re thrilled to launch the Forefront Residency, enabling alumni to deepen their work toward building a more equitable city. 
Posted — January 18, 2024

Join the Forum

Individual Membership
Our Fellows are developers, architects, planners, builders, public officials, scholars, lawyers, and journalists who are building dynamic, equitable and resilient cities.

Company Memberships
Our 50 company members are leading design, development, law, construction and engineering firms who are leading urban development in New York City and around the world.

Support Us
Our work would not be possible without the generous support of civic leaders and design champions. Whether you are interested in joining our Director’s Circle or making a one-time contribution to support our work, we welcome your support.