When designing a space, the focus is often on play- and/or sports areas, rather than dedicated areas that are attractive to youngsters from the age of 12. They also deserve a place in the outdoor space. Youngsters love to have their own place and to be seen. And the environment likes it when they can keep an eye on things. A place where they can sport and exercise, compete with each other, but also a place to dive into their smartphones and socialize and meet others. Smart design in the outdoor area makes it interesting for the youth to go outside, to get moving. And smart design of the space also promotes social quality of life and mutual acceptance between the users of a public space.
LIVING ROOM IN THE OUTDOOR AREA
Not everyone is the same and has the same interests or needs. This also applies to young people. When you design the environment for young people, you must also look here at the characteristics of the different types of people (Energizers, Structure seekers, Builders and Observers). A place that is experienced as pleasant to stay by the individual types is also a place that is attractive to the entire group. The group strengthens and corrects each other. Adolescents educate each other. They learn and accept from each other. We see a place where meeting, performing, discovering and relaxing ‘hanging out’ are facilitated in a good and appealing way as a living room, where there are no parents: OUR PLACE.
