Great Design Resource – Project for Public Space

A short post today to tell you about one of my favourite websites for information and inspiration on all things to do with the design of public spaces. Project for Public Spaces (PPS) is about placemaking. No inverted commas used there, placemaking might not be a word that spell-checkers like but it defines perfectly the art of creating functioning spaces and buildings which enable communities to thrive.

As stated on the site the project itself was originally founded (by current President Fred Kent) in 1975, taking it’s cue largely from the work of William H. Whyte and has it’s base on Broadway in New York City. They describe the project’s approach as to help “citizens transform their public spaces into vital places that highlight local assets, spur rejuvenation and serve common needs.”

[The PPS has] completed projects in over 2500 communities in 40 countries and all 50 US states. Partnering with public and private organizations, federal, state and municipal agencies, business improvement districts, neighborhood associations and other civic groups, we improve communities by fostering successful public spaces.

It’s a fine record based on a great ethos – one I wholeheartedly endorse. But what I appreciate the most about their website is what a great and comprehensive resource it is: hundreds of articles including case-studies, research and important developments in the thinking and approach to placemaking and covering transportation, civic centres, markets, parks and the effects of markets and public places on local economies to name just some of the topic areas. There is also a catalogue of Great Public Spaces from around the world which anyone can nominate new spaces to if you register on the site for free. Conversely there is a ‘Hall of Shame’ to exemplify how it shouldn’t be done.

“It’s hard to create a space that will not attract people; what is remarkable is how often this has been accomplished.” -William H. Whyte

If you’re looking for greater academic or literary depth on a subject their is a ‘Store’ section selling books written by associate members of the project and another excellent resource is the close to 1,000,000 stock photos covering a vast multitude of public space scenes. The images are a very high quality and not free (there’s a US$50 minimum purchase) but for those willing to pay for top quality photography of people interactions in public space and buildings, perhaps to illustrate their work or a presentation, then I would suggest this could be a great place to search.

Ultimately it is the comprehensive representation of a fine methodology and ethos that continues to bring me back to the PPS website. That is that the proper development of truly great public space has a hugely beneficial effect on communities – their well-being, sense of self and happiness – can reduce local crime rates and help local economies, while bad public spaces effect adversely. Further more this is something which can be demonstrated readily through countless examples across the world and which is achievable anywhere given the right approach.

To see for yourself visit www.pps.org

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