The Connection between People and Place: A Case Study on Social Interactions in UA Outdoor Public Spaces

Abstract

This study aims to investigate how the design of three outdoor public spaces on the University of Arizona campus effects the level of social interaction at each site. Social interaction is defined by interchangeable sequences of exchanges where individuals can attach meaning, interpret, and respond; which includes looking, listening, and talking (Salih & Ismail 2017). With similar sizes and locations, The Women’s plaza of Honor, The Highland Bowl, and The University Services Building Courtyard were chosen to compare their ability to promote social interaction through five different criteria: placement, usage, image/design, elements, and access (Salih & Ismail 2017). This study found that the highest count of social interactions directly relate to the diversity of areas and seating for people to interact in. Addtionally, the quality, interest, and comfort of the seating and elements (like grass, art, etc.) had an effect on the success of people using these spaces.