In modern urban analysis, line–nodal connections are often used as a model, diagram or matrix for describing space and its accompanying phenomena. In practice, the search for relationships in space is often nothing but the designation of lines reflecting their physical and nonphysical association by their geometry. Recording the spatial issues of a city constituting a very complex structure on the surface of paper, or on a computer monitor, is an extremely difficult conceptual task. At the heart of Design Thinking is a deep understanding of the relationship between different elements. It can therefore be concluded that heuristics are the basis for understanding the Design Thinking method. An attempt was made to check whether the Design Thinking method can restore the optimal balance between modern tools used to develop course projects, and the need to search for the best solution constituting the idea of the project. The article presents the results of two-year research on the use of the Design Thinking method in academic teaching of subjects related to the subject of spatial planning. Thanks to the use of the Design Thinking method in teaching spatial planning, it is often possible to discover design possibilities and proposals that surprise students.

The article discusses the role of humanistic values in the contemporary configuration of cities. Today's times put us in a privileged position as we can observe deep and clear changes happening very quickly. Visible changes are reflected not only in society and culture, but also in the space of developing cities, towns, and metropolises. While characterizing contemporary urban trends and ideas, the philosophical trends that contribute to them and the values on which they are based were discussed. Corrections are also shown, which usually start with slight dissonances and initially slight differences in the content of theses, and as a result lead to completely different views on the world. Contemporary determinants of postmodernism, deconstructivism, ecological ideas, sustainable development, social integration and participation, high-tech, digital, and smart city are discussed in detail.

This article aims to demonstrate the technical capabilities and effectiveness of an energy production and management system for school facilities using a modular solution. The system is assumed to generate electricity from renewable sources, such as wind or sun. The potential of renewable energy sources in Cracow, Poland, was assessed, with a focus on solar energy (photovoltaic panels, PV). Taking into account the installation of heating and other equipment, an analysis of the facility’s electricity demand was carried out. The study recommended the use of a heat pump system to heat and cool the facility. Renewable energy sources will meet 81% of the facility’s projected annual demand, according to the study. An analysis of the energy consumption and production profiles shows that almost 69% of the energy produced by the PV panels is consumed on site. Of the remaining energy, 31% is fed back into the grid and sold to the grid operator or used by other facilities within the shared settlement. The overall balance results in a small electricity deficit that must be covered by the grid. If suitable sites are available, the facilities under study could consider installing a wind turbine as a potential supplement to the energy deficit.

The development of waterways is one of the key factors influencing the perception of the city by its residents and people visiting them. The unique value of these areas in the urban structure often results due to the short distance from the historic city center. An important factor is the layer of cultural values. For the sake of the rich traditions of many urban centers, it seems necessary to draw attention precisely on the aspects related to the connection of the waterfronts areas with historical tissue of the city. However, due to the continuous development of the cities, we have to deal also with the areas that have been invested today - often in recent years, and this process is still continuing. Often we faced with problems That have been created in recent years as a side effect incompetently policy planning. Legal documents such as the Water Law Act stipulate that "When designing, making and maintaining water facilities, the principle of sustainable development should be followed, in particular maintaining good water status and characteristic biocenoses, the need to preserve the existing relief and biological relations in the water environment and in wetlands". Unfortunately, these records are often not taken into account during the transformation of watercourse channels - especially in urbanized areas. In fact, the priority is to get the maximum protection against flooding and to bear the lowest possible economic costs. So we can assume that the appearance and spatial order in the areas of waterfronts are primarily connected with the consistently implemented measures in line with the ideas of sustainable development, as well as thought-spatial policy pursued by the city authorities.

Universal design, also referred to as design for all, involves the creation of spaces that are accessible to individuals with diverse needs and abilities. In the context of urban areas, particularly those situated near water bodies, the implementation of universal design principles plays a pivotal role in fostering social integration and addressing the needs of both residents and visitors. The necessity for functional transformations is further exacerbated by climate change, a phenomenon that is being observed globally. In this context, the imperative for action in accordance with the principles of sustainable development is especially salient, as substantiated by interdisciplinary scientific research, the conclusions of which are presented in summary form in this paper. The article expounds upon the fundamental assumptions pertinent to the design of urban waterfront areas and the prevailing challenges therein. These areas are often strategically situated within the urban landscape, yet their development often hinders the utilization of these spaces by residents and visitors alike. The significance of economic transformations in shaping zones proximate to water bodies was underscored, with a focus on comparative material illustrating “good practice” examples that offer valuable inspiration. The implementation of even the fundamental principles of universal design has been demonstrated to enhance the quality of urban space, a matter of particular relevance when confronting the challenge of designing public spaces. The optimal selection of architectural solutions facilitates the creation of engaging and functional public spaces, which often directly influence the perception of urban space.

The space in which young people learn undoubtedly has an impact on the quality and effectiveness of learning. Following this lead, the project team, supported by participatory activities, created the concept of a modular mobile classroom that responds to contemporary environmental and social challenges.