Understanding the neighborhoods’ in-between spaces on spatial perception, social interaction, and security

Abstract

This study reflects on the impact that the neighborhoods' in-between spaces have on: spatial perception, social interaction, and security. These sites, characterized by their abandonment and deterioration, can also be seen as crucial spaces of opportunity for cities, in the architectural, urban and landscape research. This paper aims to analyze the socio-spatial relationships in the neighborhoods’ in-between spaces and examine the impact of in-between space configuration on urban habitability. The investigation draws on a survey of perception to residents about the requirements for a suitable social interaction in these spaces. This study was developed in a neighborhood in the city periphery, characterized by their social dynamics and location in a nature conservation area. The findings indicate that the appropriation process, activities, and collective practices are dependent on the spatial legibility, in this case when this increases, gives rise to improve the habitability and the rehabilitation of the in-between space. Furthermore, the lack of design on in-between spaces substantially affects the use of these spaces and the social interaction among residents.

Keywords

• In-between spaces
• Socio-spatial relationships
• Habitability
• Neighborhoods
• Security