Spatial Cognition And Wayfinding In Underground Public Spaces

As the outcome of high density in big cities, the underground public spaces become more and more complicated. Compared with ground space, underground public spaces make it harder for people to orientate themselves, and make people feel more confused and nervous in them. So it is necessary to do some research on spatial cognition and wayfinding in underground public spaces. This survey conducted in Shanghai People Square underground public spaces, and made a discussion on the relations between function, space and behavior. By observing, tracing and recording the participants' wayfinding process, the modes of wayfinding behavior and spatial cognition are summarized. In the wayfinding conditions, which have or not a certain sign, these questions are discussed: the characters that could be used as anchor point, and its effect, orientation, and evacuation. The aim of the research is to explore some modes of spatial cognition and wayfinding behavior in underground public spaces, and provide some principles about architectural and urban design.