Culture as A Catalyst: The Role of Cultural Placemaking in Urban Development
In episode 14 of Talking Place, host Tanisha Raffiuddin talks placewith George Kekatos, Cultural Director of Futurecity about how culture is more than aesthetics—it’s a powerful tool for transformation, connection, and urban regeneration.
This wide-ranging conversation takes us from George’s creative roots in Athens to his strategic work shaping cultural infrastructure across the UK. Together, they explore how culture can act as a catalyst for more human, joyful, and resilient cities.
Culture: A Tool, Not an Add-On
George makes a bold statementearly in the episode:
“Culture isn’t decoration. It’s the heartbeat of a place.”
Through his work at Futurecity, George challenges the idea that culture is something to be “added on” once development is done. Instead, culture is the lens through which we can interpret complex ideas - sustainability, regeneration, social value - and create places that truly connect with people.
From Research to Reality
George walks us through the Futurecity approach to cultural strategy - from deep research to big ideas, stakeholder testing, and actionable delivery. This isn't just theory - it’s practice.
He shares how Seed 130, a gallery space in the City of London, evolved from strategy to reality. What began as a conversation about cultural programming became a thriving space for art, sustainability, and community engagement.
“You can see the impact directly. That’s placemaking.”
Bridging Artists and Developers
One of the most powerful parts of the episode is George’s reflection on Futurecity’s role as a translator between two very different worlds:
“Developers need content and connection. Artists need space and support. We build the bridge - and make sure it’s built with care.”
From transparent artist commissioning to strategic briefs that align creative ambition with development goals, George highlights how this bridge-building is essential to future-proof cities.
The Value of Artists
When asked what change he wants to see in the next five years in urban development, George is clear:
“Appreciate artists. They create entire industries.”
Studios, spaces, infrastructure - all of it starts with artists. Cities that understand and support this are not only culturally richer but economically stronger and more resilient.
Global Perspectives on Placemaking
The episode also journeys through global examples - from the Venice Biennale’s city-wide transformation, to Athens’ local rootedness, to London’s ambitious cultural shifts.
Each example underscores the same truth: culture has the power to reshape how we live, work, and connect.
🎧 Want to hear more about the intersections of culture, creativity, and cities?
👉 Listen to the full episode of Talking Place