Public space can shape the soul of a city

Amanda Burden, a famed city planner who contributed to Manhattan's High Line, talks about the value and importance of public spaces as well as the happiness bestowed by them.

"Public spaces have power," says Burden. "A successful city is like a fabulous party -- people stay because they are having a great time."

The trick, she notes, is to get outside the compulsion of the developer profit motive, and make the most of opportunities for the common good.

"Communities can tell whether or not you understand their neighborhood," she says. "It's not something you can just fake."

To make successful public spaces, more than professional skills are necessary.

"You don't tap into your design expertise," says Burden. "You tap into your humanity."