Focal Points Photo Essay

The Features That Elevate a Place

Fred: Maybe not the way to go...Another idea might be bronze sculpture and how people react

Agree...This is good...like the idea of strong images with limited text

could start with Munich victualing Market. strong social connection as a case study....then Paris , Oslo ...historic story about Munich with many focal points (short segment) could make it stronger

lets do a lot of photo essays to get the flavor out as to what might be much longer and more detailed post with an idea as to how they might grow...For example we have a lot of pending focal point essays

feeling of human scale comfortable, casual, engaging

A great public place incorporates ...demands...both amenities and assets. While amenities are functional and contribute to the experience of a place by making it more comfortable to be there, assets elevate the experience of a place by making it more pleasant and enjoyable. Amenities include things like benches for resting on, shade that keeps us cool, and bollards to create a separation between people and cars. On the other hand, assets include features that add beauty and pleasure to a space such as sculptures, decorations, and art. The best public places have both.

memorable...yes below

Too often, we overlook focal points as unimportant because they don't have a clear function – they are more so landmarks, decorative features and art. Some people think that this means they don't add enough value to a space. That isn't true at all. Focal points are what tie a place together, give it identity, and make it pleasant to spend time in. They are what gives a place character, brings people joy, and keeps them coming back. Focal points are therefore essential to great places. people walk slower they are shifting their glance as interest demands...even vehicles slow down when there are people engaged in the surroundings

Examples of Focal Points

Memorable Sculptures

Sculptures are a great example of focal points – the central gathering point of a place that anchors it and gives it a unique identity. Sculptures often represent the history or values of the place they stand in, communicating something interesting and meaningful. They are the perfect place to meet with friends because they are prominent and can be seen from afar and they help us orient ourselves because they are recognizable landmarks.

Play sculptures are important features to any park or city square. These are sculpture that go beyond something to look at or admire, and provoke people to engage with them. All around the world there are sculptures in public spaces — but what we find truly special is when these sculptures invite play, climbing, or exploration.