VIRTUAL Lisbon Livable Cities

Abstract

Urban development and ideas of transformation in global cities raise questions about how architecture contributes to livable environments. As a result of rapid urbanization in the 20th century Low-Rise & High-Density Residential Areas (LRHDRA) in Western Tokyo offer a unique case study. While these areas provide qualities like human scale, proximity, and pedestrian-friendliness, densification has led to a lack of green space and practices of demarcation to protect privacy.
This paper explores the potential of Public-Private Transition Spaces (PPTS) in LRHDRA as a response to these challenges. Located between the private home and the public street, PPTS connect buildings with their surrounding as a vital link in the urban fabric. Different permeable boundary objects, items of daily-use and plants placed by the inhabitants within the PPTS do not only characterize their visual appearance but also give them social and ecological capabilities. Through mapping, typological drawings, and photo documentation this study identifies patterns of use and categorizes different types of PPTS. These methods also trace the distribution and composition of boundary objects, everyday items and plants to make the capabilities visible. By examining PPTS as versatile and flexible spaces, this paper shows how they can meet different social needs as well as ecological requirements and thus contribute to the quality of life in their immediate surrounding. The understanding gained about PPTS provides valuable insights for the design of livable cities of the future.