ABSTRACT
Perception of safety is not based only on gender or age, but also one's own behavior. One design that fits all is utopic. Sometimes the perception of a lack of security can make people avoid using public transportation. In bigger cities, especially, older people avoid using public transport after dark. They might feel vulnerable about passing groups on the street or at isolated stations or bus and tram stops. The chapter presents the some of the elements that influence a person's perception of security in a public space. These are clear purpose of the area with adequate references, sight lines with no obstacles, transparency with no obstacles, art and decoration, use of transparent materials, use and color of material, social interaction and not only at platforms or in stations but also outside. The elements of design that make users feel unsafe are dark, hidden places, dark, solid materials like concrete and bad or absent illumination.
