This is the second of a four-part series on placemaking, where we explore the forces that shape our cities and communities. In this article, <rt-red>we focus on inclusivity and accessibility in public spaces, emphasizing walkability, pedestrian mobility, and universal access.<rt-red>
As we delve deeper into the concept of placemaking, the principles of inclusivity and accessibility emerge as fundamental to creating public spaces that genuinely serve their communities. William H. Whyte, a pioneer in urban sociology, was instrumental in shaping how we think about making public spaces welcoming and walkable. His work centered around creating spaces that encouraged people to gather, interact, and feel a sense of safety and belonging.
He introduced seating, created more entrances, and added pathways to increase foot traffic. Whyte’s approach of making the park more visible and inviting to pedestrians not only reclaimed the space for public use but also made it safer and more vibrant.
This transformation demonstrated that by prioritising people-first design, urban spaces could be revitalised to encourage social interaction and enhance accessibility for everyone. Bryant Park became a model for how even small design changes could lead to more inclusive public spaces that people felt comfortable using.
Inclusivity and Accessibility in Urban India
In a rapidly urbanizing India, where public spaces almost always experience congestion and overuse, creating inclusive and accessible environments is now more critical than ever. Walkability and universal access, amongst other principles, have been fundamental to our projects at Studio Lotus.
A key example is the Mehrangarh Fort Visitor Centre in Jodhpur. The fort attracts large crowds, leading to congestion at the main entrance. To tackle this, we designed an alternate arrival experience with wheelchair-accessible ramps, shaded plazas, and clear circulation paths. By providing accessible seating, pause points with views of the fort, and enhanced pedestrian mobility, we attempted to redefine the visitor experience to make it more experiential, inclusive and enjoyable for all.
Another significant project is the Gundicha Temple Precinct Redevelopment in Puri, Odisha. A central feature of this project is the creation of a shaded, pedestrian-friendly plaza designed to offer respite to and calm from the frenzied activity typically taking place there, as well as enhance movement throughout the area.
Beyond just improving functionality, the plaza represents a reclamation of space for pilgrims—transforming the area around the temple into a public zone where they can gather and rest. Integrating the temple precinct with the larger Bada Danda redevelopment—a set of initiatives which aim to improve the pilgrimage experience across Puri—the project aims to return the space to the community.
Conclusion
Placemaking is about designing spaces that enhance community and serve everyone, regardless of their physical abilities. By focusing on walkability, accessibility, and creating open, decongested areas, we can transform public spaces into vibrant hubs of social and cultural activity. Projects like the Mehrangarh Fort Visitor Centre and the ongoing Gundicha Temple Precinct Redevelopment exemplify how people-first design can enrich both the user experience and the surrounding urban fabric.
