ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at how new squares can be successfully achieved through the reallocation or removal of vehicles. The case studies have been chosen to illustrate how the removal of vehicles allows pedestrian space to be enhanced, providing the opportunity for new public squares to be created within an existing urban fabric. The key challenges for the design teams included how a sense of place can be introduced when traffic dominates all or part of the square and how that impact can be reduced. In Paris the Place de la Republique has an existing focal point that resonates with the square’s history – the statue of Marianne. The design challenge is how the centrepiece can be integrated and celebrated within the new square yet retain its visual connections with its wider city context. The Place de la Republique has one focal point whereas Times Square’s focal point is its surrounding facades and long-distance views between the buildings.
