Tranquillity amidst the bustle : positive solitude and public open space design in high-density urban contexts

Abstract

The prevailing paradigm in urban public open space (POS) design emphasises fostering social interaction; it overlooks the equally critical need for urban solitude, secrecy and privacy. In this study, we aim to address this gap by contextualising positive solitude (PS) in POSs within high-density urban environments and examining the spatial conditions that shape these experiences, using Hong Kong as a case study. Empirical research methods, including behavioural mapping and on-site participant observation, are used to investigate four POSs in Sham Shui Po, Kowloon City and Kwai Tsing. Through a comprehensive analysis of the role, function and utilisation of POSs, this research elucidates residents’ perceptions and practices of solitary space use, revealing that a significant proportion of Hong Kong POS users actively visit and utilise these spaces alone. Our analysis of how the physical and social characteristics of these spaces support PS experiences sheds light on the complex interplay between urban design elements and the fulfilment of residents’ solitude needs. This research provides an in-depth understanding of PS in a crowded urban setting, advocating for developing evidence-based POS design guidelines that consider appropriate support for PS behaviours and activities. Ultimately, this study contributes to the broader goal of creating more liveable and psychologically supportive urban environments, particularly in the context of high-density cities. 当前城市公共开放空间（POS）设计的主流范式强调促进社会互动，却忽视了同等重要的城市独处、隐秘与隐私需求。为填补这一空白，本研究以香港为例，将高密度城市环境中的积极独处（PS）置于公共开放空间语境下，探究塑造此类体验的空间条件。我们采用行为地图绘制与现场参与式观察等实证研究方法，对位于深水埗、九龙城及葵青的四个公共开放空间进行调研。通过对公共开放空间角色、功能及使用情况的综合分析，本研究阐明了居民对独处空间的感知与实践，揭示香港公共开放空间使用者中有显著比例的使用者主动造访并单独利用这些空间。我们分析这些空间的物理与社会特征如何支持积极独处体验，从而揭示城市设计要素与居民独处需求满足之间的复杂互动机制。本研究深化了对拥挤城市环境中积极独处的理解，倡导制定基于实证的公共开放空间设计指南，以充分考虑对积极独处行为与活动的适宜支持。最终，本研究为推动创建更具宜居性与心理支持性的城市环境这一更广泛目标作出贡献，尤其是在高密度城市语境下。