People are the heart of an attractive city – after all, it was us that first sparked its growth. Everything between the buildings and the streets is vital to a city's atmosphere because this is where daily life comes alive. In this public realm are our parks, squares and quaysides – social hubs that provide essential green space, experiences and scenic views. These places should act as public living rooms and feel safe, social and inclusive all year round. The urban environment should serve both people and wildlife by fostering urban biodiversity, as well as the plants that provide essential greenery, shade and natural cooling.
The City of Stockholm is committed to creating more vibrant green spaces that provide communal space for social interaction and urban living. The trees in the streets and parks of Stockholm are essential to both the cityscape and its green infrastructure. Among other benefits, trees play a crucial role in surface water management during heavy rainfall events, and provide natural shade and cooling on hot days.
Every year, we decorate the city with tens of thousands of flowers in beds and planters. To ensure that as many people as possible can enjoy the benefits of the floral displays on Stockholm's streets and squares, they are installed citywide, including at Stockholm's most popular places and at public transport hubs.
Stockholm is a city with stunning waterfront views. The City of Stockholm is improving waterfront accessibility, including the installation of jetties along the quaysides and the creation of new designated swimming spots.
In the summer months, some of Stockholm's streets, squares and quaysides are reimagined into vibrant places for socialising, playing games and enjoying cultural activities. In the winter, we generate warmth in the cold with decorative lighting on streets and squares.