URBAN STREETSCAPES: A COMPARATIVE INVESTIGATION

Abstract

The success of a commercial streetscape is dependent not only on its physical attributes but also other intangible aspects. This paper seeks to investigate the particular qualities that have contributed to the development of successful commercial streetscapes in Singapore. Particular attention will be paid to the concept of diversity in these commercial streetscapes and its role in creating a successful, lively environment that actively engages people in activities, regardless of whether such activities were originally intended for. The first chapter will introduce the streetscape and its functions as a public realm. Introducing various types of streets and definitions of a successful street from different points of view. The following chapter looks at commercial streets specifically its functions, relationships as public spaces and streets for the people, with emphasis on street activity and its effect on street life. Chapter three and four explores into the parameters of a successful street, idea of diversity and how it contributes to the commercial success of a street. Chapter four looks at designable elements like building interface, spatial design, spontaneous activities and nodes. Chapter Five investigates the role of diversity and other designable factors that contribute in the making of two successful streets in Singapore: Orchard Road and Waterloo Street as a preamble. Proceeding that the chapter will two physically similar streets in Little India – Upper Dickson Road and Dunlop Road – and analyse the difference in commercial success of one street over the other, despite both falling under the same sphere of influence. The concluding chapter will attempt provide recommendations to expand the scope of diversity in commercial streets using the examples studied in the earlier chapters As far as it is possible for a street to be well-planned, it is imperative to concede that there will always be contributing factors of a successful street which are beyond our control and understanding. The challenge, as planners, is to discover the potential within this ambiguous intellectual space and enlarge the span of factors that can be controlled to develop streets to their full potential