Studio DiverCity offers strategic and spatial design services that help cities transition towards more liveable, inclusive and climate-resilient futures. Founded by architect-urbanist Reena Mahajan, the studio specialises in people-centred, water-sensitive and gender-responsive urbanism. It combines design, advocacy, visual storytelling and public dialogue to reshape urban space and culture.

Its work spans eco-districts, mobility strategies and public space transformation, including projects like the pedestrianisation of Montevideo’s Ciudad Vieja and masterplans in France and beyond.

Studio Divercity also leads campaigns like #MontevideoPacificada, which helped win safer crossings and better cycling infrastructure in Uruguay’s capital. 

It is currently developing StreetSmart, a digital platform that helps communities and cities reimagine their streets through data, design and dialogue.

Through interdisciplinary methods and a strong equity lens, the studio addresses the root causes of unsustainable urban systems and builds momentum for systemic change.

Studio DiverCity approaches urban design as a systemic intervention. It addresses the root causes of environmental harm through holistic, low-impact and water-sensitive strategies.

• Eco-districts are designed for compact, walkable living that reduces car dependency and supports more sustainable everyday habits. Each project integrates green corridors, native vegetation, energy-efficient buildings and climate-adapted materials to strengthen biodiversity and reduce resource consumption.

• Water-sensitive urban design begins with the terrain. Instead of burying water infrastructure, the studio treats water as a visible and living system. Bioswales, rain gardens and permeable surfaces help manage runoff, reduce flood risk and recharge aquifers. This approach respects natural flows and builds resilience to climate extremes.

• Mobility transformation prioritises health, safety and inclusion. Streets are reimagined to support walking, cycling and public transport, especially for children, carers and people with diverse mobility requirements. Reclaiming space from cars improves air quality, reduces heat and restores the street as a place for social life and nature.

• Participatory design and visual advocacy are essential tools for long-term impact. Studio DiverCity works closely with communities through co-design workshops and campaigns like #MontevideoPacificada, which helped secure safer crossings and new bike lanes in Uruguay. The studio is also behind StreetSmart, a digital platform that empowers people and cities to reimagine their streets through data, design and public dialogue.

Environmental benefits include reduced emissions and air pollution, improved stormwater management, urban cooling, increased biodiversity and stronger community ownership of place. Together, these contribute to healthier, more liveable and climate-adapted cities.