Strøget vs. Drottninggatan : Through the Lens of Sociability, Public Spaces and Human Interactions

Abstract: What attributes can make a street become more sociable and create a vibrant streetscape where people feel comfortable spending time? The purpose of this study is to find these attributes and apply this knowledge in a case study on Drottninggatan and Strøget to identify their strengths and weaknesses as well as providing recommendations on how the streets can become more sociable public spaces. To achieve this a diverse selection of methods will be used. A literature review with emphasis on theories by Mehta (2013), Jacobs (1995) and Whyte (1980) will form the foundation for the study. Furthermore a combination of conventional methods such as observations and counting/tracking and more experience-based methods as City Walks and storytelling will form the core of the case study. During the case study a number of important urban elements arose with the key features being the use of open spaces, urban furniture and their positioning, the use of green structure and the presence of events on the street. The architectural ensemble is to be considered important for the framing of the public realm to a certain degree since it has a strong effect on how a space is perceived and the fact that if inappropriately used it can give rise to negative experiences of the street. Strøget and Drottninggatan show examples of both good and bad practice and both have aspects to improve to support a more sociable public space, even though Strøget have to be considered as being a few steps ahead.