“The City of Theory”

Danish architect Jan Gehl argues that designs that encourage people to spend time outdoors and that facilitate interacting with other people outdoors can make a big difference in city dwellers&s; quality of life. He notes some outdoor activities like delivering the mail and going to work or school have to take place regardless of the quality of the built environment or how people feel about being outside. He also notes many outdoor activities that take place in the space between buildings, taking a walk, chatting with a neighbor, sunbathing, are optional. When outdoor areas are of poor quality, only strictly necessary activities occur. This chapter views activities that occur in publicly accessible spaces. Social activities are all activities that depend on the presence of others in public spaces. Life between buildings is discussed here because the extent and character of outdoor activities are greatly influenced by physical planning. A close relationship between outdoor quality and outdoor activities is noted.