The Impact of Public Spaces Design on Human Behavior

Abstract

Human behavior, experiences and social interactions in public spaces are believed to be the result of the mind processes influenced by the different features of these spaces. These features may be physical, social, cultural or sensory but what they share in common is the power to affect people’s behavior in the public realm. The purpose of this study is to explore how public spaces influence human behavior in order to gain an appreciation of the significant role that public spaces play in the daily lives of people. This will enable built environment professionals and public authorities to comprehend the effects that planning, design and development decisions are capable of having on the social, psychological and emotional wellbeing of people. The methodology of the study is taking (alqsr & altabya intersection) as a case study in a descriptive analytical method in order to gather observations and list the exact description of the human behavior at this place, then take this observation and make considerations and recommendations for the design. The observation will be conducted in two phases Data collection: aims to document the physical environment (components), the users and their activities in different times in the day. Data analysis: a subjective reading of how people use the space and the impact of the physical environment on the way that users use their space. This thesis has emphasized the importance of attaining a meaningful understanding of the practical implications of design and development decisions, from an environmental psychology perspective. It is considered that a deeper appreciation and understanding of the application of environmental psychology to public spaces will ultimately improve the quality of the built environment.