The Ingredients of Great Places

Every place is different, but there are some important common ingredients for creating a great public space. Project for Public Spaces (PPS) began consistently using the term placemaking in the mid-1990s to describe its innovative people-and-place-based approach. It was informed by the work of placemaking pioneers like Jane Jacobs and William Whyte, who introduced groundbreaking ideas on the social and cultural importance of lively neighbourhoods and inviting public spaces.

In evaluating thousands of public spaces around the world, PPS found that to be successful, they generally share the following four qualities:

1. they are accessible
2. people are engaged in activities there
3. the space is comfortable and has a good image;
4. it is a sociable place: one where people meet each other and take people when they come to visit.

Another thing we'd add to this list is people who care for and look after the space. This could range from informal care, like picking up a piece of rubbish, or professional care like place management, cleaning, maintenance etc. Even the most beautiful and well-designed space soon feels neglected if there are no professionals and/or local people to care for it.

This graphic shows some of the important ingredients of great places, as judged by everyday people all around the world. Thanks to the ACT Government for providing this photo of the Dickson Shops in Canberra, Australia.

Learn more about the need for and how to improve public spaces and create more connected, resilient neighbourhoods at https://placemaking.education/