Why Our Public Spaces Telling the Poor to Just Go Away? Hostile architecture

Dennis Asis
Jul 25
3 min read

People walk and sit on a bustling city street with trees and a red brick building. A tall skyscraper stands in the background under a blue sky. — A bustling urban street lined with red brick buildings and lush trees, where people gather and stroll under the watchful gaze of a towering skyscraper. The presence of benches suggests an inviting space; however, the design might subtly deter the most vulnerable from finding refuge, reflecting the complex issue of "hostile design" in public areas.

Public spaces are meant to be welcoming, communal areas where everyone can gather and connect. Yet, an alarming trend known as "hostile design" is reshaping these environments into places that often push the most vulnerable—especially the poor—away. This raises important questions: Why is this happening? What does it mean for our communities?

People walk and sit on benches in an urban alley. Tall buildings and signs in the background. The mood is calm, with soft natural lighting. — An urban walkway featuring benches designed with armrests to deter sleeping, reflecting elements of hostile architecture aimed at influencing public behavior.

Understanding Hostile architecture Design

Hostile design encompasses architectural features aimed at preventing specific behaviors, primarily targeting the homeless and low-income individuals. For example, park benches often have armrests that make it nearly impossible for someone to lie down comfortably. In cities you might find spikes installed in doorways to deter people from resting. While these designs are often defended as efforts to maintain safety and order, they actually signify a deeper issue of social exclusion.

The Costs of Social Exclusion

The effects of hostile design go beyond mere aesthetics. When public spaces are intentionally made uncomfortable for certain groups, they convey a clear message: “You don’t belong here.” This policing of public environments reflects societal values often rooted in privilege. For instance, in New York City, it is descriptive that residents felt that public spaces need to be more welcoming to all. However, our cities often speak a silent language of exclusion, further marginalizing those already struggling with poverty.

Creating Inclusive Spaces

What can we do to combat this trend? Awareness is the first step. By recognizing hostile designs around us, community members can unite to push for more inclusive alternatives. Cities can invest in several design strategies that foster accessibility and comfort for everyone:

Installing benches without armrests, allowing people to sit or lie down comfortably.
Creating well-designed gathering areas that invite relaxation and socialization.

Using successful case studies, like the transformation of public parks in Portland, Oregon, which now prioritize inclusivity, can inspire other communities to adopt similar approaches.

Community Reactions

Fortunately, some cities are resisting the narrative propagated by hostile design. Activists and local organizations are teaming up to reclaim public spaces. Initiatives like guerrilla gardening and temporary art installations are becoming popular. In Chicago, for instance, community members have turned abandoned lots into vibrant green spaces, gaining media attention and increasing support for inclusive designs. These grassroots movements tend to spread rapidly on social media, raising awareness and rallying community members for change.

The Ripple Effect of Urban Design

Hostile design does not only impact the unhoused; it creates a ripple effect that influences all of society. When one group is marginalized, it affects our collective humanity. Public spaces should embody our community’s diversity, celebrating inclusivity rather than exclusion. For example, cities that design spaces to invite participation often see increased community engagement. Local groups shall show support that when public spaces are redesigned for inclusivity, local participation in community events can be highly promoted.

People at a modern bus stop in sunlight; some seated, others standing. Brick buildings and trees in background, clear blue sky above. — Public space design can unintentionally marginalize, reminding us that inclusivity must be at the forefront to ensure these areas celebrate our shared humanity and diversity.

A Call for Change in Public Spaces

The architecture of public spaces significantly shapes societal attitudes toward poverty. Hostile design creates barriers and sends a message of exclusion to many, whereas progressive design promotes a sense of community. By becoming more aware of these design choices, we can advocate for spaces that welcome all individuals, ensuring no one feels the need to simply "go away."

Transforming our public spaces is not merely an aesthetic endeavor—it is about fostering community, empathy, and connection. Let us reclaim our public areas as inclusive environments that allow everyone to thrive. Together, we can confront hostile designs and advocate for a future where every person feels welcome.