Social Space and Daily Commuting - Phenomenological Implications

Magazine article, 2014

Encouraging use of public transit is one important way to reduce energy consumption and counter climate change. In my research on the design of Swedish travel centers, I have studied the transit stations for the planned “West Link,” an underground railway tunnel through Gothenburg that will increase the capacity for commuter traffic. I ask how one might design public-transport spaces that incorporate safety, comfort, unambigu-ous orientation, and aesthetic values. A thorough answer to this question might help de-signers and planners to create more sustainable, user-friendly urban spaces.