Enhancing the Urban Night Experience through Active Public Realm for a 24/7 City: a case study of Thiruvanmiyur Chennai

Abstract

The post sunset scenario in a built-environment is a monochromatic illusion of lights and a home for vibrant public gathering spaces. The urban night has various temporal and spatial implications which vary greatly from the day. The night’s perception is further, unique for every individual and varies greatly based on gender, age group, purpose of usage etc. Consecutively, the various facets of the night could be poetic or dangerous, romantic or lonely. More often than not, such spaces are deemed as unsafe and neglected dark spaces of the urban environment that are subject to crime. The night has different connotations for different cultures. While domesticating the night has been a product of necessity in the past, now it’s explored for its mysteries to create more interesting/ round the clock spaces. Night in the past used to be a struggle for shelter and safety- from animals, thieves, storms etc. Hence the days used to start with dawn and end at dusk. But the improvement in technology and lifestyles has piqued interest in the possibilities of these twelve enigmatic hours. The economy of the night can vary greatly from the day- the places most active in the day may be completely desolate in the afterhours, and new and often surprising spaces pop up decorated in the yellow spotlights of the nocturnal theatre. The question of what leads to these new hotspots, then is very subjective to the context, and will be explored in this paper. This paper will try to understand the various elements of the urban night and decode the reasons behind their positive or negative connotations on the urban landscape as a whole. A 24/7 city is a thriving urban environment that operates around the clock, catering to the needs and lifestyles of its residents and visitors. It is characterized by vibrant activity at all hours, with round-the-clock access to essential services, transportation, entertainment, and amenities. A 24/7 city embraces a diverse range of businesses, such as shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, operating beyond traditional working hours. It fosters a safe and inclusive environment, ensuring the availability of infrastructure and public spaces at all times. This concept recognizes and accommodates the dynamic nature of modern society, allowing people to live, work, and enjoy life at any hour they choose.