As a native of Los Angeles, I have always been surrounded by the sprawling landscape of single-family homes and the endless network of freeways that connect them. It’s a city that prides itself on its car culture and the convenience of being able to drive anywhere at any time. So when I first arrived in Costa Rica, I was struck by the stark contrast of its public spaces.
Costa Rica, a small Central American country known for its lush rainforests and stunning beaches, may not seem like the most obvious place to study public spaces. But for Setha Low, a renowned anthropologist and professor at the City University of New York, it was the perfect setting to explore the relationship between people and their surroundings.
Low’s interest in public spaces began in her childhood, growing up in the diverse and vibrant city of New York. She was fascinated by the different ways people interacted with their environment and how it shaped their daily lives. This curiosity led her to pursue a career in anthropology, with a focus on the built environment and its impact on society.
But it wasn’t until she arrived in Costa Rica that Low truly understood the importance of public spaces. In an interview with Social Science Space, she shared her insights on the country’s unique approach to public spaces and how it has influenced her work.
One of the first things that struck Low was the abundance of public spaces in Costa Rica. From bustling city squares to tranquil parks, there seemed to be a public space on every corner. This was in stark contrast to the privatized and commercialized public spaces she was used to in the United States.
Low explains that this emphasis on public spaces is deeply rooted in Costa Rican culture. “In Costa Rica, there is a strong sense of community and a belief in the common good,” she says. “This is reflected in the way public spaces are designed and used.”
Unlike in the United States, where public spaces are often designed to be aesthetically pleasing or commercially viable, Costa Rica’s public spaces are designed with the community in mind. They are places where people can gather, socialize, and engage in activities that promote a sense of belonging and connection.
One of the most striking examples of this is the country’s use of the “plaza.” These open-air squares are found in almost every town and city in Costa Rica and serve as the heart of the community. They are often surrounded by important buildings such as churches, government offices, and schools, making them not just a place for leisure but also a hub for civic and social activities.
Low also notes the inclusivity of Costa Rica’s public spaces. Unlike in many Western countries, where public spaces can often feel exclusive or unwelcoming, Costa Rica’s public spaces are open to everyone. “There is a sense of equality and accessibility in these spaces,” she says. “They are not just for the wealthy or privileged, but for everyone to enjoy.”
This inclusivity is also reflected in the design of public spaces. Low points out that many of Costa Rica’s public spaces are designed to be multi-functional, catering to a diverse range of needs and activities. For example, a park may have a playground for children, a basketball court for teenagers, and a walking path for adults. This allows people of all ages and backgrounds to come together and use the space in their own unique way.
But it’s not just the design of public spaces that sets Costa Rica apart, it’s also the way they are managed and maintained. Low explains that in Costa Rica, there is a strong sense of ownership and responsibility for public spaces. “People take pride in their public spaces and are actively involved in their upkeep,” she says. This sense of ownership not only ensures that public spaces are well-maintained but also fosters a sense of community and civic engagement.
Low’s research in Costa Rica has had a profound impact on her understanding of public spaces and their role in society. She believes that the country’s approach to public spaces holds valuable lessons for other countries, particularly in the Western world, where privatization and commercialization have taken over.
In a world where public spaces are becoming increasingly scarce, Costa Rica serves as a shining example of how these spaces can be designed and managed for the benefit of the community. As Low puts it, “Costa Rica has shown us that public spaces are not just places to pass through, but places to stay and connect with others. They are the heart and soul of a community.”
