1.

2 Literature and Justification

An examination of the literature pertaining to the physical design of streets in relation to
the development of sense of place, which includes place attachment and sense of community, has
received little academic attention (Pendola & Gen, 2008). Although there is a great deal of
literature on the theories of sense of place, place attachment and sense of community, there is less
literature on how the physical form of our streets either enhance or diminish the establishment of
these place making concepts. The majority of the place making literature is descriptive and there
are very few articles that critically analyze or suggest alternatives to ways in which we can create
streets and spaces that foster a sense of place, place attachment and sense of community.
Many scholars argue that successful streetscape design is as much of an art today as it
was in the 1960’s (Porta & Renne, 2005). Current city planners, urban designers and architects
continue to struggle with creating vibrant socially active environments (Hay, 1998). This is in
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large part due to a breakdown in the development of places and spaces that create a sense of place
(Relph, 1976). An examination of academic guidelines (Bosselman, 1998; Jacobs, 1993; Lynch,
1960; Whyte, 1980) has exposed a weakness in their ability to create a sociable street. There is a
strong consensus on how to make an aesthetically pleasing and functional street; however, factors
that contribute to a socially vibrant street are either lacking or play a secondary role to the streets
physical appearance.
This research will contribute to the literature by synthesizing the current place making
theories and concepts to see if they are implemented in the current streetscape design principles
and guidelines. In addition, the feedback obtained form streetscape users will provide insight into
what elements, amenities and design features they believe contributes to and fosters a socially
vibrant street. This feedback is needed to further emphasize or deemphasize the importance of
particular aspects of the academic streetscape design guidelines and is necessary to improve the
quality of streetscape design and bridge the gap between theory and practice.