SPATIAL SYNTAX AS A TOOL FOR STUDYING THE STRUCTURE AND CONFIGURATION OF PUBLIC SPACES

The author presents the theory of spatial syntax, which is a key tool for under-standing of the structure of public space and its configuration. Spatial decisions are determining factors influencing to the behavioral characteristics of people who use public space. The author traces the use of spatial syntax as a tool for choosing a de-sign solution for the reconstruction of Trafalgar Square in London. The main interest of spatial syntax is finding the relationship between human needs and spaces. It is believed that behavioral characteristics are already embedded in the structure of spa-tial systems. Spatial syntax calls this relative characteristic of space as a configura-tion and offers the idea that it is this characteristic that shapes human behavior and thus contains social knowledge. Bill Hiller described the method of analysis of the existing scheme of use of the space of Trafalgar Square and around it, which was taken into account later by the authors of the reconstruction project. The perfect spatial design was to contain three key elements: simple, straight routes for pedestrians, which should cross the space in the middle, not at its edges; the presence of points of perception in several visual areas; availability of facilities for eating, drinking or recreation, located near the main walking routes. The analysis of Trafalgar Square showed that none of these elements was pre-sent in the decision of the square. Spatial analysis helped to find optimal design solu-tions. Spatial analysis of Trafalgar Square has shown that, although the effects of people movement are important, but not as much as the impact of space configura-tion. As the analysis of the design solution of the public space of Trafalgar Square confirms, a successful project means, first of all, reasonable spatial solutions.