Equally Spaced?

I found a very interesting report by a group called Demos concerning public space and interaction between diverse communities called “Equally Spaced.” Here is the link. If you are interested in the topic it is a very good read.

I liked how they discussed how a successful public space is less about a predetermined designed space, and more about the experience created between the people and place. No matter how outstanding the design is, it is up to the people to make it successful. That is something that no designer has direct control over. A park can be the most beautifully designed park in the world but if no one uses it then it is worthless.

I also found it interesting how they talked about “virtual public space.” In the world of the Internet people can go to a “public space” without leaving a “private space.” Places like Facebook, Myspace, and even WordPress could be considered a public space. I find this to be an uncomfortable reality. As convenient as the Internet can be at giving us information I think it is subduing our desire for direct human interaction.

Any questions, comments, or critiques are greatly appreciated!

~ by publicspaceanalysis on October 8, 2008.