How can you create a unique sense of place in a commercial district?

1 Use local materials and plants

One of the easiest ways to create a unique sense of place in a commercial district is to use local materials and plants that reflect the history, culture, and climate of the area. For example, you can use recycled bricks, stone, or wood from nearby buildings or sites, or native plants that are adapted to the soil and water conditions. Local materials and plants can also reduce the environmental impact of your design, as they require less transportation, maintenance, and irrigation. They can also create a sense of continuity and harmony with the surrounding landscape, while adding texture, color, and diversity to the streetscape.

2 Incorporate public art and cultural elements

Another way to create a unique sense of place in a commercial district is to incorporate public art and cultural elements that express the identity, values, and stories of the community. Public art can take many forms, such as sculptures, murals, installations, or interactive pieces, and can be integrated into the landscape or the architecture. Cultural elements can include symbols, patterns, signs, or landmarks that relate to the history, heritage, or traditions of the area. Public art and cultural elements can enhance the visual appeal, interest, and meaning of a commercial district, as well as stimulate creativity, dialogue, and participation among the users.

4 Create variety and contrast

A fourth way to create a unique sense of place in a commercial district is to create variety and contrast, adding elements of surprise, diversity, and distinction to the space. Variety means that the space offers different options, experiences, and activities for the users, catering to their different moods, interests, and abilities. Contrast means that the space contrasts with the surrounding environment, creating a sense of identity and differentiation. For example, you can create variety and contrast by using different materials, colors, shapes, or textures, or by creating different zones, levels, or focal points in the space. Variety and contrast can also increase the attractiveness, liveliness, and memorability of a commercial district, as well as its adaptability and resilience.

5 Involve the community

A fifth way to create a unique sense of place in a commercial district is to involve the community, engaging the stakeholders, users, and partners in the design process and the management of the space. Involving the community means that you listen to their needs, wants, and opinions, and incorporate their feedback and suggestions into your design. It also means that you empower them to participate in the creation, maintenance, and activation of the space, giving them a sense of ownership and responsibility. Involving the community can also enhance the relevance, legitimacy, and sustainability of a commercial district, as well as its social capital and cohesion.

6 Be innovative and experimental

A sixth way to create a unique sense of place in a commercial district is to be innovative and experimental, exploring new ideas, methods, and technologies that can improve the quality and performance of the space. Being innovative and experimental means that you challenge the conventional norms, expectations, and standards of the space, and seek to create something original, distinctive, and visionary. It also means that you test, monitor, and evaluate the outcomes and impacts of your design, and learn from the successes and failures. Being innovative and experimental can also boost the competitiveness, attractiveness, and reputation of a commercial district, as well as its potential and future.