: These only happen when conditions are favorable—for instance, choosing to sit on a bench or stroll through a plaza. These activities are highly dependent on the quality of the public space.
: These are essential tasks like commuting to work or school. Because they are required, they occur regardless of the environment's quality. Life Between Buildings: Using Public Space
Gehl's philosophy categorizes public activities into three distinct types, each influenced differently by the physical environment: : These only happen when conditions are favorable—for
Modernist urban planning often prioritized cars and large-scale structures, leading to sterile environments. Gehl advocates for a return to the , emphasizing that the city should be designed for the speed of a pedestrian. Jan Gehl Using Public Space - LIFE BETWEEN BUILDINGS Life Between Buildings: Using Public Space