For this assignment we were supposed to watch a movie called The Social Life of Small Urban Spaces by William H. Whyte. After watching the movie, we were supposed to have a reflection in form of data visualization which could include mind maps, charts, graphs, icons etc. The reflection could target questions such as the summary of what the movie is about, what are the important elements described in the movie, what are the criteria for outdoor public space and what are the criteria for indoor public space?
Data:
This movie was about the first-hand observations done by Whyte on city spaces. It talks about how some city spaces work for people while the others remain dormant and discusses what could be changed in urban planning as lessons. Whyte and his team began by looking at New York City’s parks, plazas, and various informal recreational areas like city blocks; a total of 16 plazas, 3 small parks and different locations to try and figure out the factors that affect crowding or gathering. Settings like urban parks and street corners were integral in creating liveliness because that is where people mingle, children play, and actions take place.
In my first chart that I made digitally with Illustrator, I designed a space that included elements that would make an efficient public space. It includes steps and comfortable, flat ledges that are used as one of the favorite sitting spots. People attract people and the more the sitting space, the livelier a place is. This sitting space is also extended to chairs which can be a big asset if they’re movable. They enlarge choice; moving due to sun, proximity to strangers, or just autonomy. However most of this is decided by aspects such as trees, wind, sun and water. The plantation should be close to the seating in order to provide some shelter and warmth for a personal feeling. I also included a fountain which is a preferred spot by families and lovers to have a good time dipping their feet in. Such fundamentals not only provide for an individual’s satisfaction but also enforce socialization and intermingling. Unintentional public characters such as vendors, performers and food carts also invite a lot of attention and make the space look bubbly and happening.
The mind map is a chain of thoughts and connections I found between one aspect and the other. It also summarized the movie. Indoor spaces have similar needs in terms of services and factors as outdoor, except they need to consider the environment around. ‘One benefit of an indoor space is the through-block circulation it can provide for pedestrians. A good internal space should be visible from the street; the street and its surroundings should be highly visible from it; and between the two, physically and psychologically, the connections should be easy and inviting. One way to provide a good entrance is to have big enough crowds.’
