Ricardo Machado
The Netherlands

"I believe it will positively impact my career by helping me contribute more thoughtfully to projects that prioritize public space and the common good."

Ricardo Machado is an architect from The Netherlands. He participated in the online course Urban Design for the Public Good: Dutch Urbanism. Read about his experience.

Why did you choose to enroll in this course/programme?
I enrolled in this course to deepen my understanding of how urban design can serve the public good, especially through the lens of Dutch planning practices. I was interested in learning how spatial planning, infrastructure, and governance intersect to create sustainable and inclusive cities.

How did/will this course impact your career or life?
This course gave me new tools and perspectives to approach urban design more holistically. It strengthened my ability to think across scales, consider governance structures, and integrate sustainability into spatial planning. I believe it will positively impact my career by helping me contribute more thoughtfully to projects that prioritize public space and the common good.

How was your learning experience?
My learning experience was enriching and engaging. The course combined theory with practical, creative assignments that encouraged me to reflect on real-world urban challenges. The international perspective and clear structure made the content both accessible and inspiring.

If you’d recommend this course to others, tell us why and share any advice for future learners.
I would definitely recommend this course to anyone interested in urban design, planning, or sustainability. It offers a unique insight into how the Netherlands tackles complex spatial challenges by linking design with governance. My advice to future learners: stay engaged with the assignments, relate them to your own environment, and don’t be afraid to be creative — that’s where the real learning happens!