This point-counterpoint from Building Design debates whether the British can design good public spaces.
On the "No" side, Martha Schwartz, Principal of Martha Schwartz Partners argues "Utilitarian, functional hard spaces and corridors have simply dropped off the page. They are underadvocated, underfunded, and underappreciated, and their impoverishment has become what we expect to see in a city."
Arguing "Yes", Sarah Gaventa, Director of Cabe Space says "All the local authority surveys show that people take pride in their public spaces. They understand that public spaces are as important as good schools and healthcare; that they support public health and quality of life, and provide pleasure. We need local authorities to understand it, too."
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Read the full story: Are the British any good at designing public space?
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