2. characteristics of good space
What’s meant by “good space?”
By this I’m thinking about distinguishing a good space - a space that helps people be their best selves - from other spaces.
The notion of “people being their best selves” is altruistic and self-centered. But rather than being paradoxical, I maintain that it’s fundamentally a social context that determines this particular aspect of wellbeing. We are social creatures by nature, and we live out our lives - together and apart - in the context of the spaces we encounter; hence, good space is space which contextually suits the kinds of experiences people purposefully seek out in support of their needs.
There are many aspects to this, including spaces of refuge, spaces which support psychological wellbeing, spaces in which people come together in creative and nurturing ways.
Spaces can take on different socio-physical scales, from personal or individual scale, to small group (e.g. family) scale, to neighborhood or community scale and so on. Depending on the inherent primary, intended use of a space, such as home, work, school, market, etc.), different scales are relevant according to the intended purpose and function. Scale can also be considered from a time perspective - some places are experienced in passing while others, as perhaps destinations, have a longer inherent timescale relating to the active user experience.
Geography and culture are both factors informing characteristics of good space. Hotter locales, such as tropical and equatorial latitudes, tend to prioritize covered outdoor spaces for the shade as a refuge from the bright sun and/or rainfall. By contrast, Scandinavian design features clean, light lines with an emphasis of allowing daylight into spaces (at least during the summer months!). Lifestyles are naturally adapted to local climates as much as they are tradition and heritage among communities and families.
A good space is where people want to be. What attracts people to be some place? Far more than mere utility, or transactional interactions, a good space is one that is part of the regular rhythm of life, whether by choice or happenstance. Your favorite store. Your favorite quiet spot in the corner of a library or coffee shop. Some people choose particular airports over others as part of their travel experience. We’ll examine what makes each of these places - and more - good spaces.
