My work explores urban environments, the role of community-driven design, and the relationship between planning and the economy.

Raquel Higginson is a recent graduate from Concordia University’s Department of Geography, Planning and Environment, where she specialized in Urban Planning. With a strong passion for sustainable urban development and community engagement, Raquel’s academic background is complemented by hands-on projects focused on improving the liveability of Montréal’s neighbourhoods. During her time at Concordia, she collaborated on various community-led projects, including research on pedestrianization and sustainable transit solutions. Raquel is particularly invested in the integration of sustainable practices within urban design and believes in the power of collaborative, creative solutions to build healthier cities.


PROJECTS

Pedestrianize Mackay → Montreal, ongoing

Potential Sites for a New Outdoor Skatepark in Montreal Using GIS → Montreal, 2024.

Enhancing Connectivity, Sustainability, and Livability in Mercier-Est → Montreal, 2023-2024

Reimagine Chinatown Design Charrette and Forum → Montreal, 2022-2023

Fine Arts Resource Guide → Montreal, 2022-2023

EDUCATION

Concordia University, Bachelor of Arts in Urban Planning, 2021-2024 - Graduated

SEIZE (Solidarity Economy Incubation for Zero Emissions) certificate in the Fundamentals of the Solidarity Economy, 2022

University of Winnipeg, Urban and Inner-City Studies, 2019-2021

AREAS OF INTEREST

City Planning; Green Infrastructure; Transit-Oriented Development; Vector and Raster Data Analysis; Public Space Design; Pedestrianization; Social Planning; Land Management; Urban Strategies; Urban Design; Policy; Design; Planning; Graphic Design; Affordable Housing Strategies; Urban Security and Policing; Historical Urban Displacement;