The Archive

Every essay, in one place.

1 essays on urban planning, infrastructure policy, and the systems that shape American cities.

All Infrastructure Policy Walkability Placemaking Urban Design Third Spaces Transit
01
Placemaking
Where Did Everyone Go? Failed Branded Experiences and the Vanishing Third Place
On Fyre Festival, a disappointing Barbie skate rink, and what happens when brands fill the space where community used to be.
September 20, 2026 · 8 min read