COGNITIVE MAPPING IN SPACES FOR PUBLIC USE

Cognitive mapping might be considered as an essential element of pre design/ post design phase for public spaces. Cognitive maps can be defined as a category of mental representation and concepts that are built to visualize and obtain information. The reason why people use cognitive mapping is to create an opportunity to represent their experiences about their environment. Public spaces provide a space in which people can come in contact with the social world outside and experience the opportunity of being with, seeing and hearing others which instills stimulation. This paper aims towards the role of cognitive mapping in spaces for public use. Besides, the relevance and impact of Cognitive Mapping in Public spaces is also discussed. The five principles of Kevin Lynch i.e. paths, nodes, districts, edges and landmarks are considered for understanding the impact of cognitive mapping in spaces for public use. Thereafter, the Influence of Cognitive Mapping in determining success / failure of a Public Spaces is also looked upon. Next, two cases of Mexico City and Melbourne, involving cognitive mapping in places for public use is mentioned to understand the practical implications of the topic. Lastly, observations from primary survey/exercise for understanding cognitive mapping in spaces for public use undertaken by the authors have been mentioned. These primary studies had been done in Jodhpur, Chandigarh and Visakhapatnam. The inferences and facts from the paper might be used by architects and planners to understand the considerations to be taken before starting to visualize a successful public place.