Research as the foundation The work of Gehl Architects builds on Professor Jan Gehl’s 40 years of extensive research on life in public spaces. Along with new research this continues to build the foundation for our work in small and large cities in all corners of the world. The human dimension Gehl Architects - Urban Quality Consultants is a consulting firm offering expertise in the fields of architecture, urban design and city planning. Our work is based on the human dimension – the built environment’s effect on activity patterns and interaction between people. We consider the attractive and lively public realm to be one of the most important keys to quality in cities. Although the physical aspects of humans such as our senses and the way we walk and sit are timeless, the physical environment influences social interaction and this is a phenomenon in constant change and evolution. We
Life Between Buildings (Jan Gehl). First published in 1971, the book continues to be a widely used handbook on the relationship between public spaces and the social life in cities. It is published in 18 languages. A number of articles and contributions to books are being produced by the research unit at Gehl Architects. This reflects our belief that working with the public realm requires a multi-channelled approach. You can buy the English language books at www.arkfo.dk (DK) or www.islandpress.com (US), and download project reports on www.gehlarchitects.dk
continually work to develop our knowledge regarding how and why the physical environment influences social interaction. An integral part of our work is to keep track of current research and knowledge, and to continue to carry out own research projects and analysis.
Empirical analysis We develop solutions based on detailed analysis of the existing social and built context in the form of public life and public space surveys. Thus our design and planning solutions are based on a comprehensive understanding of people’s use of public space and the way people experience urban quality. Gehl Architects work both to improve existing cities and city areas, as well as to consult on the planning and design of new city areas, urban residential developments and new towns.
Gehl Architects · Urban Quality Consultants · Gl. Kongevej 1 · DK 1610 Copenhagen V · Denmark · www.gehlarchitects.dk
The research manifests itself not only in books. Gehl Architects are featured in Louisiana’s (Danish Museum of Modern Art) in their 2012 summer exhibition entitled ‘ New Nordic Architecture. Part of the ‘Reconquering of public space’ section of the exhibit, our component is comprised of three themes vital to urban quality– Life, Mobility and Scale. The content for each theme is based on the principles established by Jan Gehl and continually evolved by Gehl Architects to the many different types of projects and scales of intervention.