A critical component of the WHY of Placemaking has to do with how space makes people FEEL:
We use the term “stickiness” to describe a place that people return to and linger in.
Stickiness is created by co-locating uses and activities in ways that support each other AND by an environment that supports lingering, like when an entertainment district with restaurants and bars is anchored by a music or sports venue and connected by a high quality public space like a plaza
We also know that low-risk interactions, like the ones you have with your regular barista or the neighbor you always pass on your dog walk not only boost our mood and self esteem, but contribute to our overall well being, physical health, and even extending our lifespans!
When you experience repeat interactions like this, you start to build positive associations that make you feel connected to a particular place—what we call place attachment.
Jodi Dubyoski 