Date of Graduation

12-2022

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Architecture

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Architecture

Advisor/Mentor

Billig, Noah

Committee Member/Reader

Biehle, Scott

Committee Member/Second Reader

Jacobus, Frank

Committee Member/Third Reader

D’Aquino, Riccardo

Abstract

The more we understand the patterns of how people use space, the better we will be able to forecast the outcomes of new public space initiatives. Studying public life can be done in a similar way to how meteorologists can fairly accurately describe the weather (Gehl 2013, 2). The goal of this analysis is to better understand the patterns evident in these successful spaces so that more similar spaces can be developed in the future. Can exemplary public spaces be used to forecast new projects? Rome has a high density of successful public spaces, and this case study will focus on three of these piazzas; Piazza San Cosimato, Piazza Testaccio, and Piazza Cavour. Analysis will be used to determine the similarities and differences that can be identified as replicable components and implemented in new designs or revitalization projects. These categories will include uses, surrounding program, shading, landmarks, materials, general form, historical significance, natural vs manmade elements, proximity to public transportation, and safety. The success of each space will be based off criteria from projects for public spaces and documented using strategies from Jan Gehl’s book on how to study public life. This capstone should be used as a starting point for designers to conduct their own case studies that can be redeveloped into strategies applicable to their own specific project. It is not a definitive list of principles but a compilation of tools and elements from the integration of different analysis methods.

Keywords

Rome; Public Space; Patterns; Urban Design; Architecture; Landscape

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