Gilbert seeks ideas for developing Hudson's site in Detroit

[DetroitPlanner]

Many of the plaza's that you describe in NYC or Chicago are not exactly friendly spaces. The NYC classic Seagram's Building was all the rage back in the 1950s, with it's lack of setbacks and public plaza. However it was not successful as a public space. People did not warm up to it.

Two words: Rockefeller Center http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Manhat...17.39,,0,-22.5

You need not have a bland space to apply this technique.

Here is the same idea but from Lower Density Beverly Hills: http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Beverl...=12,87.71,,0,0

And another space from Hollywood CA
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=El+Cap...=12,58.31,,0,0

Pretty nice spaces for shopping, people watching or having a coffee!

All three are carved out of existing blocks and provide life to the street, not dead lifeless walls surrounded by dead public space.

In order to see what makes for great public spaces and plazas read William H Whyte.