Redesigning the public realm : a new center for Santurce, Puerto Rico

Abstract

Public space Is the stage upon which the daily drama of communal life unfolds. the dynamic setting for our basic needs: politics. religion. recreation. and commerce. Essential complement to both workspace and dwelling (defined as private realms). the public space provides the common grounds for human Interaction; satisfies the pressing needs of the people; brings together the diverse members of the community; and defines and strengthens a common Identity. A successful public space must respond consciously to several external forces: economic. physical. political. and social considerations; and must accommodate and adapt to possible changing trends of those same factors. Modern examples are generally Inflexible economic ventures. privately administered public spaces of exclusive character. doomed to disappear due to their own limitations.