Elements of the public realm refer to the physical environment within a public space that give the space identity and character. Examples of elements include landscape, signage, entrances, etc.

My element of study in this section was street furniture. Whether that be furniture to sit, lean, or lay down, there are all sorts of furniture in our public spaces that give the space identity. There are also differing types of street furniture when it comes to how the furniture is used in a space. In my analysis, I include six different types of street furniture as follows: moveable furniture, accessible furniture, stationary furniture, aesthetic furniture, furniture for conversing, furniture for resting, furniture for observing, and furniture for play. Figure I.

Figure I.

Analyzing these spaces in terms of elements is important in breaking down the public realm into the simplest of terms. How can we understand why public spaces are successful or unsuccessful without first understanding the basic elements of the space?

                  Through this analysis of the public realm of the North Loop,  I was able to conclude that areas to the North of the North Loop have successfully implemented strategic street furniture that adds to the enjoyment of the space. However, the South side of the North Loop has made small attempts to add street furniture, although the implementation cannot compare to other surrounding areas. The street furniture is mainly implemented in transit stops and outside of residential buildings. Due to this, the public realm faces hardships when it comes to the pedestrian experience.

                  A solution to this issue is to implement more street furniture that are outlined in Figure I. Implementing furniture for conversing, resting, observing, etc. allows the space to be utilized in ways other than transitioning from indoor space to the next indoor space. This simple implementation would spark the interest of pedestrians and bring more density to the area.