Between buildings: a guide to the design of positive open space in the city

Abstract

As cities evolve and continue to be more densely built upon, it is of utmost importance that the users of the urban areas are not neglected. In order to create a more humane city with a quality environment, the counterpart of development - open space - should be optimized to provide "lungspace" along with aesthetically pleasing opportunities for interaction. (Boffa 1982) With more than 80% of New Zealanders now living in urban areas, the need for open spaces for rest and recreation is more important than ever. The more buildings there are, the greater the need for well planned open space - not just gaps between structures, but carefully designed places that people will be naturally attracted to. (Crisp 1987)