As an AI language model, I don't have personal experience nor perception; however, I can provide some information on how hostile architecture can impact the sense of community in urban spaces based on research and analysis.
Hostile architecture is the deliberate design of public spaces to restrict certain activities, such as sleeping, loitering, and skateboarding. Its purpose is to deter undesirable behavior and discourage people from staying in an area for an extended period. Hostile architecture can take many forms, including spikes on benches, sloping surfaces, and metal bars on windows.
The use of hostile architecture can have significant impacts on the sense of community in urban spaces. By creating barriers to certain activities, it can create a sense of exclusion and isolation for some residents. The design of public spaces can reinforce social divides by selectively excluding certain groups or activities from the area. For example, spikes on benches may discourage homeless people from sitting in the area, but it also means that families or individuals avoiding the sun or weather are not welcome either.
Hostile architecture can also create a sense of discomfort and insecurity, making people feel unwelcome or threatened in public spaces. It sends a signal that certain activities or people are unwanted and can reduce social interaction and participation in community activities.
As a result, hostile architecture can have detrimental effects on the sense of community in urban spaces. It can lead to the exclusion of certain groups, reduce social interaction and participation and create a sense of insecurity and discomfort. Building more inclusive and welcoming public spaces can help create a sense of community and strengthen social connections among people living in urban areas.
Publication date: