Using recent examples from public parks and urban street life, this photo essay explains how the quality of public seating affects our state of mind.Ultimately the evolution of the park bench affects our capacity to thrive economically.
28. In stark economic
terms…
a depressed,
lonely, isolated,
unsafe, unhealthy,
low self-esteem
state of mind is
bad for today’s
means of production:
our brainpower.
29. Three decades ago, the quest to reduce crime
and anti-social activity in public spaces led to the
‘broken windows theory’ of visual signals.
Today, community aspirations have moved
beyond ‘do no harm.’
30. The ‘park bench effect’ signals a new era
of respect for the power of public spaces to
nurture human relationships.
33. At the base of this tall building there is public
seating which conveys openness, abundance…
The Qube, 611 Woodward Ave.
Bedrock Real Estate Services
Detroit, Michigan
40. ParKIT on K Street,
Washington DC
design by Gensler working
with GoldenTriangleDC.com
BENEFITS
Improves safety due to more
‘eyes on the street’ (Jane Jacobs)
Encourages interaction that
spans diverse economic and
cultural backgrounds
Adds character at street level
of generic tall buildings
Promotes walking by making
the journey more interesting