10 Principles of a Successful Square

A successful square connects the community and generates opportunities for everyone. Multiple factors contribute towards the success of a square from the physical fabric of the square to the user experience. The following are the 10 principles for a successful square ( Project for Public Spaces, 2005):

  1. Image and identity
  2. Attractions and destinations
  3. Amenities
  4. Design flexibility
  5. Seasonal strategy
  6. Accessibility
  7. Inner and outer square use
  8. Dynamic: Reaching out like an octopus!
  9. Well managed
  10. Diverse funding sources and partnerships

 Here are few examples of some of the greatest squares in the world (The World’s Best Squares 2005; Project for Public Spaces)

Congress Square Park
Granville Island Public Market
Kerr Park
Project for Public Spaces – Placemaking Event

The following list summarizes the elements and components of the World’s Best Square:

  • Dynamic, pulling you in from anywhere in the city
  • Multiplicity of uses, offering something to every inhabitant
  • Accessible for every user
  • Ample greenery and sitting spaces
  • Full of activity: variety of passive and active uses
  • Major attractions
  • Excellent programming
  • Artfully placed amenities
  • Consistently active: Day or night
  • Flexible design to increase year-round use
  • Full of innovative surprises
  • Connection and a destination: All roads in the city lead you here