New governance strategies for urban design

The publication presents an analysis of soft-power governance practices in the area of urban design, in regions and cities of the European Union.  H2020 project Urban MAESTRO has explored how the soft (non-regulatory) powers of the state can shape the decisions that help to deliver better-designed urban places. While focused on Europe, the analysis of urban design governance practices is of universal relevance and may inspire non-European local, regional and national authorities in their efforts to enhance the quality of urban environment.