Praise Architecture discussion

In this chapter Jacobs goes into great depth on her analysis of how cities function, tackling sidewalks, parks and neighbourhoods separately. She uses a lot of real-life examples of public spaces in big cities across America and I really enjoyed reading how she describes human interaction taking place. Examples like the ‘Joe Cornacchia, who keeps the delicatessen’ who looks after the local residents’ keys really paint the picture of a vibrant city, and this is what a successful city feels like! Focusing on the human aspect of city design and architecture versus the aesthetics is something that is still difficult for many to grasp today.

The critiques on city parks has really made me think more deeply about park functions. Admittedly I hadn’t thought about it too much before, and before reading this chapter would have thought that more parks equal good. But it is true that successful parks have much the same necessities as successful streets; they should be surrounded by diverse uses and should have eyes overlooking them. Also, if a child can have more fun playing in an interesting street than in an empty park, it emphasises the fact that parks or outdoor play areas aren’t quick fixes to urban design.

Jacobs’ idea of a sidewalk being not just a place for pedestrian flow, but also a place for social interaction is something I resonate with. I live on a street of tenement buildings that have steps leading up to the entrances and on sunny days and evenings, residents come out onto the stoops and sit and chat with each other or read a book or have a drink. I choose to walk down this street even when the back-street entrance gets me home quicker because this route is so enjoyable.

What do you appreciate in city design? Can you think of any examples of great uses of public spaces?

- Praise Architecture