
More colourful, more vibrant, safer: Urban design is transforming streets into canvases, making them more than just surfaces for driving or walking on. By Elke Hildebrandt

3D road safety
In the small town of Ísafjörður in Iceland, a 3D zebra crossing appears to float above the asphalt. The optical illusion slows motorists down and makes crossing the street safer for pedestrians.
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Colourful creations
Examples of the distinctive designs funded by the Asphalt Art Initiative appeared on the streets of London in November 2021. The initiative aims to revitalise public spaces and improve street safety.

Motivating movement
In support of Hamburg’s bid to host the 2024 Olympics, the entrance to Jungfernstieg suburban rail station was transformed into a running track. The track was actually used as part of the city’s marathon course, with runners running down one staircase and up the other.

Smooth rotation
Roundabouts slow traffic down. In the town of Lyss in the Swiss canton of Bern, a roundabout designed to resemble a turntable delights DJs and vinyl fans.