ABSTRACT
An overview of how cultural background influences an individual's preferences for, comfort with, and often-seen use patterns for various types of environments is provided in this chapter. While each community and its residents are unique, some culturally linked behaviors in outdoor settings have been identified and shared. Patterns and behaviors common to multiple cultures as well as characteristics unique to certain cultures are also explored. As society and specific communities become increasingly diverse, recognizing and celebrating cultural differences can contribute to the creation of rich and relevant public spaces. With that in mind, a more comprehensive discussion of developing a culturally sensitive and responsive approach to design is included.
