What is Space?
Space is defined as a continuous area or expanse which is free, available, or unoccupied.
Components & Extents of Space
[Source: Author]
In the context of this article, space shall be defined as a limitless, geographic entity; that, which is undefined.
The limitless expanse of ‘Space’
[Source: www.nationalgeographic.com]
Use of a singular ‘Space’ in Multiple Ways
[Source: www.researchgate.net]
What is Place?
As per Oxford Dictionary, Place is defined as a particular position, point, or area in space; a location.
This can further be defined as an area used for a specified function, activity or purpose.
The Taj Mahal
[Source: www. formertourist.com]
An Old Town Square in Warsaw, Poland
[Source: Author]
Theories of Space and Place
1. Henri Lefebvre (Sociologist) – ‘The Production of Space’
“[s]pace, we have noted, is given by the ability to move. Movements are often directed toward, or repulsed by, objects and places. Hence space can be variously experienced as the relative location of objects or places, as the distances and expanses that separate or link places, and - more abstractly - as the area defined by a network of places.”
2. Yi-Fu Tuan (Geographer) – ‘Space and Place - The Perspective of Experience’
“What begins as undifferentiated space becomes place as we get to know it better and endow it with value. […] The ideas ‘space’ and ‘place’ require each other for definition. From the security and stability of place we are aware of the openness, freedom, and threat of space, and vice versa. Furthermore, if we think of space as that which allows movement, then place is pause; each pause in movement makes it possible for location to be transformed into place.”
3. Eric O Jacobsen – ‘The Space Between (Cultural Exegesis) – A Christian Engagement with the Built Environment’
“As a person lives life, one’s narrative begins to etch meanings on a particular space, causing it to become a place”
[*Eric O Jacobsen, is the Lead Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Tacoma, Washington (ECO Presbyterian). He is the author of numerous books and articles exploring the connections between the Christian faith, local community, and the built environment.]
So, what makes a ‘Space’, a ‘Place’?
The various tangible & intangible attributes and values associated with it.
Space to Place - A Demonstration
[Source: Author]
The location within a space becomes a place depending on its location, existing physical & natural features, ease of movement and accessibility - with this, the associated experience.
A place can be identified with the type of activities that take place within a space.
It can be an individual or a collective association. Therefore, also a subjective connotation
What is Place-Making?
What Makes a Great Place?
[Source: www.universityofcommons.com]
• Transformation of a ‘Space’ to a ‘Place’
• The process of creating creative, engaging spaces by the community - Place- making
• An element of physical and social integration
Artist’s Rendition of Place- Making – Lloyd Dangle
Source: www.arkinautec.com
• Transformed spaces that bring communities together.
• Role of community + culture + art [a concept]
• Facilitates creative patterns of use – particularly physical, cultural and social identities which
i) Defines a place
ii) Supports ongoing evolution
Place-making forms a space where celebrations are held, social and economic exchanges and engagement occur, friends run into each other, and cultures mix.
• Sense of Place
• Re-imagination and reinvention of public spaces as the heart of communities
• Creates a leisure experience for the pedestrians
• Can be a tactical or a permanent design
Integrated Place-making, an incremental form of micro-urbanism
[Source: Author’s Thesis Theme]
Case Example: Place-making under a bridge in Matunga, Mumbai
A linear garden – an element of integration
• The residents living within the neighbourhood crowdfunded the project.
• Safe community space for users