Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Ensuring publicness and accommodating more diverse human activity in urban public spaces is necessary. This research analyses the relationship between human activities, ownership, and physical features encouraging or discouraging use within the city centre of Dublin (Ireland), a diversifying metropolis experiencing dereliction. Four urban squares were assessed through fieldwork, including direct observation and behavioural mapping. Results indicate that publicness and features encouraging or discouraging use are not directly associated with site ownership. Nor was the presence of nature and landscaping determined by ownership, though it generated microclimates that promoted a higher mix of activities. Implications of going beyond formal definitions of ownership for publicness placed under broader sustainability agendas and recommendations for urban design practice are derived.
Source: URBAN DESIGN International
Institution: University College Dublin
Language: English
Subfield: Building and Construction
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,090
OpenAlex ID: W4402111949