We’re thrilled to announce the newest addition to our Urban Design Center: Charlotte Lamb Kuuskvere! With her extensive experience in urban planning and design, Charlotte is set to make a significant impact in her role as Project Manager and Urban Designer.

A Charlotte Native with a Diverse Professional Background

Born and raised in Charlotte, Charlotte’s roots run deep in our city. Her academic journey took her from UNC Chapel Hill, where she earned a Bachelor’s in Environmental Studies with minors in Geography and Urban Planning, to UNC Charlotte, where she completed her Master’s in Urban Design in 2018.

Why the Urban Design Center?

For Charlotte, the Urban Design Center offers a perfect blend of her diverse skills and experiences. “Each project presents a unique challenge and a chance to blend creative design solutions with community input,” she explains. From reimagining public plazas to developing neighborhood plans, Charlotte is driven by the tangible impact her work has on improving the quality of life for Charlotte’s residents.

The Importance of Urban Design and Placemaking

Charlotte’s passion for urban design stems from its profound impact on community life. “Good urban design isn’t just about aesthetics,” she notes. “It’s about creating sustainable, accessible environments that support economic development, improve transit options, and enhance the overall livability of a city.”

Charlotte’s Favorite Spots in the City

Charlotte is particularly impressed by Camp North End’s transformation. “I love how they’ve taken this closed-off industrial complex and opened it up to the community,” she says. “It’s a bold move that pays off in terms of connectivity and walkability.”

As a vegetarian, Charlotte’s favorite restaurant choice might surprise you. Pinky’s Westside Grill wins her heart not just for its food, but for its approach to adaptive reuse. “It’s a great example of preserving a piece of the neighborhood’s history while transforming it into a gathering spot,” Charlotte observes.

Looking Ahead

With her extensive knowledge of Charlotte’s organizational structure, her diverse experience in urban planning and design, and her strong academic background, Charlotte is poised to guide our design team to new heights. Her skills in project management, policy development, budgeting, and stakeholder engagement will be invaluable assets to our team.

Welcome aboard, Charlotte! We’re excited to see how your unique blend of skills and experiences will help create more vibrant, functional, and community-centered spaces in our beloved city.

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