09/10/2026
Designing More Walkable, Connected and Inclusive Cities 🚶♀️🏙️
Today, Local Abode joined an engaging discussion at Oxford Parks Piazza as part of the Design Week South Africa UNBUILT programme, exploring an important question: Why Is Sandton So Hard to Walk?
Mikhaela Donaldson of Local Abode, managing agent of the Rosebank Management District (RMD) and Oxford Parks Management District (OXMD), joined industry voices from urban design, transport, development, precinct management and the City of Johannesburg to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping our urban environments.
The conversation explored how Sandton’s historically car-centric development, large urban blocks and disconnected pedestrian routes have made walking difficult, highlighting the need for more accessible, people-centred urban spaces.
Rosebank provided a valuable comparison, with its human-scale development, active street edges and vibrant public spaces demonstrating how thoughtful planning can contribute to a more walkable precinct. However, challenges around infrastructure, public transport integration and limited public space remain important areas for continued improvement.
A key message from the discussion was that cities must work for everyone — including pedestrians, public transport users, people with disabilities, women and children. Creating safer, more connected urban environments requires integrated transport networks, accessible amenities and collaboration between the public and private sectors.
The session concluded with a walk through Oxford Parks, hosted with Intaprop, offering a practical look at pedestrian routes, active building edges and the role of public spaces in shaping the urban experience.
At Local Abode, we recognise that effective precinct management goes beyond maintaining public spaces. It is about building partnerships, addressing shared challenges and contributing to urban environments where people can move, connect and thrive.
Connecting Communities. Strengthening Partnerships. Improving Precincts.