Week 4--- 1/28

• Class discussion of Non-Place to Place assignment.
• Class discussion on Reading #2 (Lefebvre and Habermas). Turn in handout after class discussion for grading.
• View via link: The Social Life of Small Urban Spaces.  Listen closely when Whyte discusses these key elements:

seating space – the documentary recommends 6% to 10%, but the idea of more than enough should apply. Especially with concerns of over-capacity, the problem with urban spaces has mostly been underuse, not overuse
sun, wind, trees, water – these features make the sitting experience pleasant.
food – the draw of food, especially with seating, creates a cafe-like atmosphere amiable to visitors.
the street – urban space should be seen from the street, and a part of the street experience. Secluded and unseen urban space is unused urban space.
triangulation – street acts, public art, music, magicians, all add character and distinction to a space.


Homework Assigned--Due Week 4:
You will receive a letter grade for this assignment.

Take a trip downtown and try to locate a public space that successfully incorporates most or all of these elements. When you find it, have a photo taken of yourself/selves there. Email your photograph, along with a paragraph of why this particular space is your choice. You may collaborate on this exercise.