A Woman's Place

Abstract

This study investigates ways in which perception of outdoor public spaces is influenced by gender. Often, studies of gender and fear in public space have been centered around perceptions and fears experienced almost exclusively by women. Such studies note that women experience higher than average levels of fear in outdoor public spaces, such as parks and streetscapes, despite not being at higher risk for physical attacks than men. How can better design of these spaces change this phenomenon? The purpose of this study is to understand unique ways in which gender affects perceptions of public space and how designers of the built environment can create spaces that are perceived as safer and more accessible for women. In studies of perception, imagery, collages, photography, diagrams, and interviews have been used to understand differences in how many people– regardless of gender– perceive space. A framework for designing gender-equitable spaces emerges from this research, which emphasizes the importance of visibility, accessibility, and comfort in creating public spaces. The study of womens’ perceptions of space has become more relevant as designers question the notion of men being used as the design standard, and as many different user groups are becoming more represented in the realm of architecture and urban design.