Influential figures from London’s cultural, architectural, real estate and transport sectors recently came together at London Transport Museum for a thought-provoking discussion exploring what makes a place thrive.
Held in partnership with London Design Festival 2026, the event, Place by Design or Connection?, examined the factors that shape successful and vibrant places across the capital and beyond.
For a video of the event highlights please see here.
The discussion was moderated by journalist Emma Nelson of Monocle Radio and BBC London. Speakers were:
Jose Esteves de Matos, Director, De Matos Ryan
Anu Giri, Executive Director, English National Ballet
Fenella Goodhart, Director of Learning and Participation, London Transport Museum
Georgina Grant, Head of Asset Management, Shaftesbury Capital
David Rowe, Director of Investment Delivery Planning, Transport for London
Drawing on their diverse expertise, the panellists explored whether thriving places are primarily created through deliberate design, infrastructure and investment, or whether they emerge through community and social connections, partnerships and shared human experiences.
Opening the event, London Transport Museum CEO and Director Elizabeth McKay welcomed guests before handing over to moderator Emma Nelson.
Elizabeth McKay said:
“As a cultural and creative organisation reinventing its home in Covent Garden ahead of our fiftieth anniversary in 2030, London Transport Museum was thrilled to bring together such a distinguished panel of leaders who are passionate about shaping the future of London.
The discussion sparked genuine curiosity and debate, with speakers sharing unique perspectives on how great places are created and sustained. Events like this help us engage with the issues that matter to Londoners and strengthen our role as a dynamic, relevant and forward-looking organisation.
We look forward to hosting more events of this kind in the future as we continue to evolve and connect people with the capital’s rich history, culture and transport story.”
David Rowe, Director of Investment Planning at TfL said:
“Taking a human-centred approach to creating a place is fundamental to our thinking at TfL. We collaborate with local councils to intentionally co-design safer, accessible, and culturally vibrant areas. Alongside this, we prioritise green infrastructure to improve climate resilience, helping to create a place for all Londoners.”
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