Functions of a Public Space

These are some of the factors that are incorporated within a public space:

Aesthetics: Many public spaces try to appeal to a certain audience by containing specific features that would attract one body of people particularly. A great public space would be able to incorporate features that would attract multiple audiences, unless the function of that public space is to exclude certain groups of people. Aesthetics are usually utilized within public spaces that have a greater function than to contain a group of people and have the ability to go beyond the function by giving a look to it. Although aesthetics may not serve a function for the people of the space, it does serve to bring awareness to a space. Most spaces with little decor or thought into the building are for the general public, while those that incorporate lights and other extraneous extravagances attract those of a higher class who can afford to go there.

Availability/Accessibility: The function of a public space is limited to a certain group of people if they are unable to arrive at that public space. Location and spatial organization affects whether a space is limiting a certain group of people from utilizing that space. For example, if a place is located within a residential neighborhood and is considered public because it is not closed off from the public but doesn't have any bus stops in proximity to it, then it is limiting outsiders from coming into that community. Public places that don't have modes of transportation accessible to outsiders serve the function of catering to the direct community.

Safety: Depending on how large the public space is and who it is directed for, safety becomes a large issue. If the public space is catering towards families and children, then the public space may have obvious security that pushes away delinquents but also is comforting to those who are utilizing that space. In the above photograph, the police men are on horses to represents a barrier and threat to those who want to cause disruption to that community but by sitting on horses and strolling around the streets it gives an ambience of peace that won't disrupt the citizens daily lives and thoughts. Depending on the funds of the area as well as the reputation of an area, the safety can either be more abrupt, less frequent, or more hidden.

Activities (cost benefit): The activities of a place determine the function of a place the most. The function of a place could be for a certain economic class or age group depending on the activities present. Places, such as L.A. Live, are considered public, but only those with money would want to attend L.A. Live because the activities are limited to shopping and eating at high-scale places. Public places that don't have any cost may attract people from all economic backgrounds and age groups, such as parks. Places can limit their audience through what is available.