| Civic space is both an expression of the unique traits of the culture from which it emerged and an embodiment of the cross-cultural attributes that we all share. In every successful public park or town square one can observe the idiosyncratic nuances of local histories and values as regional interpretations of fundamental, universal principles that exist in quality civic places regardless of locale. These civic principles, such as the desire for enclosure and a sense of civic identity, are derived from the basic social needs that all humans have: to feel safe and to be part of a group.;Halifax has a number of civic spaces, such as the Grand Parade, Province House Square and Granville Pedestrian Mall that incorporate some of these universal traits of successful civic space, yet fail to fully embody and promote the daily life and culture of the city. In order to improve public life in downtown Halifax, a civic space that addresses a broader range of amenities and functions is in need of study involving both architecture and urban design. |
