Avoiding common mistakes in the design of streetscapes and public areas

Getting it right is important

The London Borough of Richmond-upon-Thames’s Public Space Design Guide’ gives an interesting summary of good practice in the field. It provides clear, concise guidance on a number of areas including paving, signage, lighting and green areas.

Consider for example the main considerations for public furniture.

1. Choose street furniture to relate to its location and local distinctiveness, and reinforce a sense of place
2. Different items of street furniture should relate to each other in terms of design, siting and colour
3. Avoid causing clutter
4. Reduce to a minimum ‘defensive’ street furniture such as railings and bollards
5. Retain and refurbish distinctive historic elements of street furniture, such as telephone boxes and milestones.

Simple and obvious.

Here’s to every scheme that achieves these.

ESI references:

• Public seating
• Bollards
• Cycle parking
• Railings

Tags: Street furniture