Improving the design and management of temporary events in public spaces by applying urban design criteria

Abstract

Urban public spaces such as parks, plazas, and waterfronts play a significant role in contributing to the character, economy and success of cities. Planned events such as festivals and markets have been increasingly staged in urban public spaces. These activities not only make urban public spaces lively and vibrant, they also have critical positive impacts on their venues. They help generate revenue, create a sense of place, and contribute to building an enriched community. However, our research revealed that in the case of all the major cities that we investigated, the planners and implementers of such events did not have professional urban or spatial design capabilities. In addition, the review of event planning guides and protocols reveals that in most documented processes for major cities, appropriate fundamental urban design criteria are neglected or poorly considered. Consequently, our research has aimed to develop the pertinent principles that can best prescribe a design aid or tool for these non-design professionals to use to support the improved design and, hence, effectiveness, of temporary event implementation in urban public spaces.