Crafting Innovative Places for Australia's Knowledge Economy

Reviews / Votes

"From my experience in and knowledge of Australian, American, Asian and European cities, this book is important to cities beyond Australia. And for Australia, if its society and economy are to thrive and avoid the ironic warning of the book The Lucky Country , then policy makers and business leaders would do well to heed Blakely and Hu's messages. The 'crafting' of the title is a carefully and thoughtfully executed act, one the authors havechosen wisely and placed properly in pole position." (Michael Neuman, Professor of Sustainable Urbanism, University of Westminster, London, UK)

"Blakely and Hu have provided a painstaking review of best practice in various seats of metropolitan innovation aiming to advance smart development, with American and North Asian cities as particular benchmarks. This is a 'go-to' book (and a wonderful complement to their prolific writings in the urban space), for authorities and aspiring practitioners in Australia and elsewhere." (Peter M J Fisher, Adjunct Professor, School of Architecture & Built Environment, Deakin University, Victoria, Australia)

"There can be no doubt that the future success of the Australian economy will lie in a stronger and more vibrant knowledge economy. Blakey and Hu bring a rich new analysis to the forces shaping the modern economy. They show how Australian cities can leverage their competitive advantage as highly urbanised and globalised centresto develop the next wave of human ingenuity and commerce that will support vibrant communities and a higher standard of living for our citizens." (David Borger, Director of the Western Sydney Business Chamber, New South Wales, Australia)

"This book provides a blueprint for the essential work of urban and community leaders to create thriving places to catalyse not only economic growth but the social resilience of communities, large and small. I am excited about how this book legitimises the role of place across all sizes of communities and geographies in growing the knowledge economy that is so vital to the future prosperity of cities and towns." (Sandy Burgoyne, Principal of Citizen Cities Australia)

"Synthesising their unparalleled knowledge and experience, Blakely and Hu lay an important foundation for Australian place-led development, governance, and innovation. Australia, supported by this book's guidance, has a unique potential to be a global leader in theurban place making models that are needed to continue to make this planet viable, and thriving, for people." (Ethan Kent, Senior Vice President, Project for Public Spaces, New York, USA)