Jan Gehl remade Sydney, Melbourne, Perth into people-centred cities
The 90-year-old Danish planner's vision for walkable, vibrant precincts helped three Australian cities climb global livability rankings.
Jan Gehl did not start famous in Australia, but he left a lasting mark. The Danish architect transformed Sydney, Melbourne and Perth from quiet centres into thriving precincts where people actually want to spend time.
Gehl's method was simple: kick out the cars, bring back the pedestrians and cyclists. Gehl pioneered the idea in 1960s Copenhagen by watching foot traffic at different times and in different weather.
He has since reshaped over 50 cities worldwide, from Stockholm to New York. Yet he says his proudest work happened in Australia and New Zealand.
Perth was his first Australian client in 1992, when Forrest Place stood empty after 5pm. He pushed the city to face the Swan River and unlock Elizabeth Quay.
A major exhibition of his 66-year career opens at the Danish Architecture Centre in Copenhagen this October.
- 90 years old
- Gehl's age
- 66 years
- Career span
- More than 50
- Cities transformed globally
- 1992
- Perth project year
Why it mattersHow cities are designed shapes where people go, how they feel, and whether they stay or leave. Gehl's work shows urban design can turn a dying centre into a magnet for life and investment.
AustraliaSydney, Melbourne and Perth now rank higher globally for livability, bringing tourism, jobs and pride to these cities. The shift Gehl championed, from car-centred to people-centred streets, is now shaping how Australian cities plan for the future.
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