Life Between Buildings: Using Public Space Apr 2026

Gehl's philosophy categorizes public activities into three distinct types, each influenced differently by the physical environment:

: These only happen when conditions are favorable—for instance, choosing to sit on a bench or stroll through a plaza. These activities are highly dependent on the quality of the public space. Life Between Buildings: Using Public Space

: These are spontaneous interactions, like greeting a neighbor or watching street performers. They are "resultant" activities that flourish only when necessary and optional activities have good conditions. Designing for the Human Scale Life Between Buildings: Using Public Space