Standing in public space does not sound like anything too exciting, right? What probably first comes to mind is waiting for a bus, a friend, or for a traffic light to turn green.
But what if I told you that standing could actually be the time to take rest and find peace in the hustle and bustle of everything else we do in a public space and not only a boring act of waiting? Have you ever considered how a well-designed public space can transform standing into something meaningful, even enjoyable?
Imagine standing not out of necessity, but for the sheer pleasure of observing the world around you. Whether it’s enjoying the warmth of the sun on your face, feeling a cool breeze, or marveling at an unexpected street performance, standing can be an act of engagement, a way to be present. And that’s what can make it good for health and well-being.
A well-designed public space encourages people to stop and stay a while. It offers safety, comfort, and interest—whether that means a shaded spot under a tree, a beautiful view, or an interactive art installation that sparks conversation.
What makes a public space good for finding those moments of calmness and stillness? First, it must be safe and accessible, offering a place where people can stand without worry.
Thoughtful design also considers weather protection, as the experience of standing changes with the environment. In colder climates, waiting at a bus stop might bring images of bracing against a chilling wind, while in hotter regions, the challenge might be finding shade to escape the relentless heat. Public spaces that account for these varying needs can mean covered areas, shaded spots, or windbreaks providing shelter from harsh weather.
Equally important is the sense of peace and engagement. A public space that invites standing should offer moments of calm as well as points of interest—something to look at, admire, or even discuss with a stranger. Cleanliness and maintenance also contribute significantly to making a space feel inviting and comfortable. Nature plays a crucial role, too – greenery and natural elements help us relax, even if we don’t consciously realize it.
Imagine a public plaza where people gather, not just for necessity, but for the joy of being there. They stand, converse, and enjoy the space, whether they’re watching a performance, waiting for a friend, or simply pausing on their way to somewhere else. This vision of standing as an enjoyable, enriching activity is what good public space design strives to achieve.

Take, for example, the space in this image. People stand together, chatting, observing, and waiting, all within just a well-maintained, simple public area. The infrastructure is not outstanding. As a matter of fact, it is just a junction corner. Yet the fact that there is greenery, something to look at and linger against turns it into a moment to pause rather than just impatiently wait for the light to turn and rush away. Maybe even some of the conversations are only taking place because the space created the environment to stop and simply say hello to one another.
Not every public space needs to be a place tailored to the smallest nuance. Still, we must ask ourselves: how can we create spaces that feel welcoming enough for people to pause, and enjoy in their own way? A thoughtfully placed pole to linger against, a sheltered corner, or even a well-kept sidewalk can transform the simple act of standing into a delightful experience. Take, for example, the square in front of Amsterdam’s Central Station. The beautiful architecture of the building makes it a place where many come to stop by and take a photo. It is also a frequent meeting spot and a place where I found myself standing and waiting for a friend “next to the metro entrance on the city side.” However, for such an iconic and central place of the city I always found it very grey. So what if it could be redesigned to better facilitate the activity of standing and cater to pleasurable moments be it when waiting for someone or simply stopping by to admire the architecture?

Do you ever take time to stand still in a public space, just to enjoy a moment of stillness or engage with your surroundings?
Stay tuned as we continue to explore how public spaces can enhance our everyday activities and contribute to our well-being. In the next part, we will explore sitting.
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