Space for everyone

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition that the public realm is often an unamenable and, at times, dangerous space for women and girls. Historically, public space has been designed by men for men, so it is with some difficulty that we might reimagine it through the female lens. Make Space for Girls and the London Legacy Development Corporation’s (LLDC) recent guidelines on Creating Places That Work for Women and Girls have been significant in articulating the values, priorities and needs of females.

Barriers to women and girls using and navigating public space are both physical and psychological. The physical barriers might include inadequate lighting, lack of safe access, or public spaces that are not designed with diverse needs in mind. Psychological barriers, on the other hand, stem from fear of harassment, cultural norms that restrict movement or a general sense of exclusion. As we explore spatial design as a tool to positively influence behaviour, it is important to highlight that this includes that of men and boys.

The reality is that in most instances, urban and architectural design should not be gendered per se. The aim is not to be divisive; it is to ensure that diverse needs are being taken into consideration. The current undertone of hypervigilance, even fear, that forms part of the day-to-day female experience is shared by many minority groups.  Arup’s report on Queering Public Space, for example, echoes many of the principles set out by LLDC, suggesting some of these principles may universally improve safety, useability and access for everyone.

Main image: Whitehill and Bordon Skate Park © Chromaphotography