Activities which take place in "loose spaces" — which are found alongside the intended uses of planned public spaces like sidewalks and plazas — are largely ignored. Editors Karen Franck and Quentin Stevens introduce their book Loose Space: Diversity and Possibility in Urban Life (Routledge, 2006) and discuss how urban design might address those parts of the built environment that are undesigned or under-designed.
Events
Book Launch: Loose Space: Diversity and Possibility in Urban Life
Stay in touch
Sign up for our free newsletter
More from Streetsblog New York City
INTERVIEW: MTA Chair Janno Lieber Talks to Streetsblog to Mark Four Years at the Top
The MTA chairman talked with Streetsblog about his tenure, congestion pricing, bus stops, Babe Ruth and more.
January 21, 2026
OPINION: To Move Past the ‘Agony and Terror’ of the Adams Years, DOT Must Lean Into Research
Ex-Mayor Adams sandbagged DOT's capacity to explain why it pursue street redesigns in the first place, and the ability to inform New Yorkers, in clear and honest terms.
January 21, 2026
Wednesday’s Headlines: Talk is Cheap Edition
We're hawking half-priced tickets to a New York Focus transportation event. Plus other news.
January 21, 2026
Central Park Changes Have Eased Crossings for Pedestrians, New Data Shows
Pedestrians are waiting less time to cross the bustling six-mile loop after the city shortened crossing distances and replaced "stop" lights with yellow "yield" signals.
January 20, 2026
Memo to Mamdani: Rescind Central Park’s New 15-MPH Bike Speed Limit
The lower speed limit misapplies state law and sets a troubling precedent for cycling in New York City.
January 20, 2026
