Suchergebnisse

This article discusses amenities that are shared by anyone in public space, such as public barbecues in Australia. The idea is generalized to a range of domestic-related amenities, from kitchen-related to bathroom-related, etc. As these domestic-related amenities relate to usage that is typically conducted within a dwelling, the amenity and its architecture can be considered a "pocket of privacy" in public space (Pocket). Our discussion explores how these publicly shared domestic-related amenities can address particular needs of society in the context of their economic, symbolic, aesthetic and ethical value. Specifically, we suggest that Pockets productively address the politics of public space and private place in three key ways: through the negotiation of the presence of people in public space, through the negotiation of individual and collective usage of the amenity, and through the gap between the symbolic and economic power created by the usage of these amenities. We conclude by proposing planning principles that may enable the economic, symbolic, aesthetic and ethical value of these amenities to be fully realized in ways that balance the politics of public space and private place.

This article discusses the design process and pilot program of a suite of IoT-integrated street furniture aimed to improve use and amenity of municipality assets in public open spaces in Sydney, Australia. Networked sensors were embedded in the furniture and linked to a web-based dashboard application enabling a digital twin of the asset to monitor and analyze how and when the furniture was used. The prototype and modifications to existing furniture designs provided additional utility for the local community through lighting, free wi-fi access, power outlets, USB charging, water, a weather station and bench space. Outcomes of the street-furniture installation revealed innovative protocols for design-development teams and asset managers to review product performance and efficiency. This article presents a collaborative government/industry/university project that has been recognized by The World Bank for intelligent neighborhood design practices and by the Planning Institute of Australia for its novel approach to community social infrastructure.

The project ChillOUT: Smart Social Spaces Creating Connected Green Places is a partnership between the University of New South Wales, Georges River Council, Street Furniture Australia, and the University of Sydney. It is underpinned by a strong philosophical orientation towards supporting people + place + healthy urban living through smart technology. The ChillOUT project aims to improve the use and amenity of public spaces within the Georges River Local Government Area (LGA). The project involves designing, producing, and testing smart open-air community spaces known as 'ChillOUT Hubs.' These multi-functional Hubs are fully IT-enabled, with smart furniture, solar power, charging points, and environmental sensors (which measure and monitor the microclimate, utility use, and use of the space). Ultimately, the Hubs will increase community connectivity, enable knowledge exchange, and provide flexible spaces for work and play.