Commerce of the Pedestrian

Abstract

What has caused the gap between the automobile and the pedestrian? Is it the visibility of the automobile? Freeways, highways, and other streets are constantly congested with motor vehicles. Also, parking allotment and design is a major, rather than minor, concern when developing a new structure. Is the gap caused by the simple convenience of having a car? Many businesses and complexes are difficult to access without the use of an automobile. Is that disconnection created by a general attitude within the culture? It is very difficult to find a true pedestrian, or a person who prefers to walk. Many people try to avoid walking as much as possible. This mindset has changed the way structures are designed. These places now cater to the automobile. The design of commercial developments is a prime example of the gap between the automobile and the pedestrian. Strip malls and similar shopping centers are developed for their convenience. They are designed as long buildings with dominating parking lots in front, which allows a consumer with an automobile to enter, shop, and leave quickly. These structures do not create an area that is attractive, or even accessible, to the pedestrian. Enclosed and open-air shopping malls do attempt to create a pedestrian experience through design. Walkways, seating areas, play areas, fountains, etc. all attribute to a positive pedestrian atmosphere. However, all of these characteristics are located in the interior of the mall. The only way to gain access to a mall is through the automobile, which means that the automobile is the predominate factor in the mall‘s design. This thesis intends to explore the factors that contribute to the automobile-orients design of commercial developments. It will analyze developments, both successful and otherwise, that attempt to focus on the pedestrian. Finally, this thesis will implement design strategies on a non-viable commercial development and attempt to reconnect it to the pedestrian in a way that would bring it back to life.