Thesis Project, topic: „Hybrid virtual and real world based on examples of public spaces in Warsaw”
This thesis is looking into the current problem with public space which in the age of digitalization is naturally becoming a multimedia space. Revolution in the field of communication, which is caused by the wide spread use of Internet, brought significant changes in people’s lives. Contemporary man has the ability to access the information from all over the world and a huge part of his life has moved into the virtual sphere, what caused the disappearance of many natural functions of public spaces. There is a crisis of activity in city space and private space becomes more attractive to people. Contemporary urban planning faces problem of designing the form and function of public space, which would be sufficiently attractive for contemporary man.
This paper describes modern technologies which led to the creation of new spaces in humans’ life – virtual word. It also analyses how contemporary urban planning approaches the challenge of digitalization of the urban space. The connection between physical and digital spaces with sociological aspect and basic human need for social integration creates hybrid space which stimulates people’s activity. In this reality man uses mobile devices with constant Internet access and communicates with other people and elements of the space. In the mean time, it enriches the typical social interactions which take place between the people.
The work is followed by the description of the research and observations conducted in selected parts of the city of Warsaw. The result of the research was the creation of the Algorithm for designing hybrid public spaces. The analysis of chosen location – Trzech Krzyży Square in Warsaw and the conclusions drew out of it, allow for appropriate use of the Algorithm in the process of designing the public space.
