Halifax, on Canada's northeast coast, offers a very strong example of a waterfront that is human scale and walkable, sporting a full range of public uses that attract large numbers of people year-round.

The Halifax Harbourwalk is full of dozens of attractions, including landmarks, eateries, markets, dining options, playgrounds, hiking opportunities, and more. The density of things to do here is impressive and everyone can find a reason to visit, from art lovers to ferry boat enthusiasts.

Placemaking in Halifax

A lot of what makes Halifax great is Placemaking via LQCs – Lighter Quicker Cheaper interventions. With the addition of some simple LQCs like moveable chairs, art installations, stages and play areas, the waterfront has been transformed into a truly people-friendly destination that has something for everyone.

Play Areas

The waterfront in Halifax is made colorful and whimsical with a variety of playful features like a piano, climbable sea creatures, interactive sculptures, playgrounds, and more. These places call not only to children, but to families and friends as well because of the way they are interwoven with seating and refreshment areas that people of all ages can enjoy.

Downtown waterfront

The downtown waterfront is full of charming buildings, photo opportunities, places to get drinks and treats, and pleasant outdoor dining areas. After exploring the numerous amenities along the Harbourwalk, you can take a break and make a memory in this lovely downtown area.

A city defined by markets

Markets are always abuzz with energy and draw people in because of the way they activate the senses and offer visitors new and enjoyable things to try and people to meet. The Halifax waterfront benefits from its own market area with bleacher-style seating, dozens of stalls, friendly faces, and fresh produce.

Waterfront market

Beyond just being a place to enjoy beautiful views of the water, the Halifax waterfront is a vibrant public space offering a collection of dynamic destinations that people of all kinds come out to enjoy. It is a great example of how Lighter Quicker Cheaper solutions can take a space to the next level and help it thrive.

Placemaking friends in Halifax

Further Reading on Waterfronts

Creating the Waterfront San Diego Needs
San Diego’s central waterfront could be one of the best waterfronts in the world. But it will take some work. The good news is that its transformation can start immediately
Social Life ProjectKathy Madden
London’s South Bank - A Waterfront Defined by Destinations
In London, a collection of distinct destinations uniquely woven together creates one of the world’s best waterfronts.
Social Life ProjectFred Kent
San Francisco - A World-Class Waterfront Defined by a Vibrant Promenade and Active Piers
San Francisco’s waterfront is one of the best in the US and an example worth following for other waterfront cities.
Social Life ProjectFred Kent
Paris - Bassin de la Villette: The Best Waterfront Yet?
Bassin de la Villette has become the best, most valuable part of the Paris Plage, connecting very different neighborhoods in Northeast Paris.
Social Life ProjectFred Kent
Paris, the World’s Best Waterfront
Paris Plage challenges the idea of iconic design as a way for cities to show off. Instead centering the creation of iconic places, Paris Plage sets a high standard for other cities to emulate.
Social Life ProjectFred Kent
The mission of the Social Life Project is to incite a renaissance of community connection in public spaces around the globe. Through our online publication, presentations, campaigns, and catalytic projects, we can create transformative impact on communities everywhere. Our work grows out of more than 50 years devoted to building the global placemaking movement. It is an initiative of the Placemaking Fund, along with PlacemakingX — a global network of leaders who together accelerate placemaking as a way to create healthy, inclusive, and beloved communities.

If you are interested in collaborating (articles, presentations, exhibits, projects, and more) or supporting the cause contact us.
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