Fabric architecture for placemaking and decarbonization
Most architects are familiar with urbanist William H. Whyte and his studies of vibrant urban places, especially small public places such as pocket parks and plazas, streets and hardscapes. After close observations of scores of public places, Whyte listed a number of key factors that pertain to successful popular usage of these spaces, including sitting spaces, food vendors, sunlight, trees and shading. If there is one material that readily works to provide shade, it is technical fabrics.