What I understood from this… Was the interaction people have with space, which was pretty interesting to read.
The prime example featured is the Plaza. And Plaza by definition is “A public square, marketplace, or similar open space in a built-up area.” This was invented as such since the greco-roman era as a place where people came together to socialize, perform talks, protests, or even sold goods.
I never really thought about a plaza as an interactive space before I read this piece.
In New York City, where space is scarce but plazas existed. According to Whyte’s observation, a plaza had an impact in people’s lives. Especially those who worked a lot and who worked nearby a plaza. Employees were the number one users of plazas, mainly to get away from their bosses or their work. They would eat their lunches there and also socialize It apparently attracts conversation and chance interaction between people.
Also another interesting observation he points out, a plaza’s attraction depends on how attractive it is, does it have a fountain? Are there restaurants and shops? But mostly he points out that the availability of chairs and what type of chairs also determines a plaza’s worth. Whether they have benches or those free standing ones, influences how people get together. The free standing ones where you move around tends to isolate people. There’s also the question of shade. Whyte points out that sometimes plaza is empty because of the sun… So perhaps weather is also a huge factor, and to have a successful plaza, mind building some shade.
Whyte also explains the important of a “sightline” and the importance of a street. So meaning to say, you’d need a street to lead you to a plaza, which happens to be at a corner. If you don’t have anything like that, then the plaza would just be ignored and be stagnant. He also points out that sometimes, it’s a good idea to have a plaza you can see right away.
Well in regards to what we’re doing in class, how is this relevant?
The example of a plaza is relevant in a way because it’s a space meant for interaction. So as to say, if a kiosk is poorly design, it won’t be used much. Nor if it’s not visible or readily accessible. Does it also give back? Does it add value in someone’s life? These are practical questions that should be asked when building an interactive piece.
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