Urbanistas RDAM: What impact does language have on the city?

Have you ever wondered what effect our language has on the way we design and the city we make? Whether the words we use shape our interactions with others and the design decisions we make? Do we (inadvertently) contribute to a 'Smooth City'? How might we do things differently?
The Urbanistas are currently carrying out a research project to explore these questions (funded by the Stimuleringsfonds) and we're hosting an event in April to discuss the topic with our wider network.

• Date: Thursday 2nd April 2026
• Time: 19:00 - 21:00 (inloop/doors open from 18:30)
• Location: Het Veerhuis (Schiemond 50, 3024 EE, Rotterdam)
• Cost: € 4,70* (tickets available via this page)

We'll be interrogating our language use, with contributions from René Boer, author of the book 'Smooth City', and spoken word artist Oukje van Merle. We're particularly interested in the insights from a multi-lingual approach, so we'll be holding discussion groups in English and in Dutch.

Tip: start listening now and thinking about the words you use and hear around you. What do they actually mean? Are they affecting how you look at the topic in question? (and once you start noticing, please ! Read more below.)
We're also delighted to share that we will be hosted by the recently opened Veerhuis in Rotterdam, in their words: "a home for everyone who loves text, language and writing". This event is open to all (i.e. not women only).
*Your ticket includes a welcome drink at the Veerhuis. Further drinks can be purchased from the bar at your own expense. We'll provide some (free) snacks!

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