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114 Hierarchy of Open Space

May be part of Site Repair (104), South Facing Outdoors (105), Positive Outdoor Space (106).

Conflict

Outdoors, people always try to find a spot where they can have their back protected, looking out towards some larger opening, beyond the space immediately in front of them.

Resolution

Whatever space you are shaping- whether it is a garden, terrace, street, park, public outdoor room, or courtyard, make sure of two things. First, make at least one smaller space, which looks into it and forms a natural back for it. Second, place it, and its openings, so that it looks into at least one larger space.

When you have done this, every outdoor space will have a natural "back"; and every person who takes up the natural position, with his back to this "back," will be looking out toward some larger distant view.

May contain Garden Seat (176), Activity Pockets (124), Small Public Squares (61), Private Terrace on the Street (140), Accessible Green (60).