Constructing Singapore Public Space [Paperback]

This book presents possible alternatives and interpretations to the well established notion in the mostly western discourse on public space. The discourse on public space as understood in the democratic-rationalist tradition, when applied to the Singaporean public space, would offer much criticism but would not be adequate in identifying alternative processes that allow for transformative potentials in public space. Thus said, the objectives of this book are: 1. To develop a conceptual frame of reference to construct the discourse on Singapore public space 2. To form a preliminary model of Singapore public space through analyzing case studies 3. To understand the modes, methods of production and representation of these public spaces within the rapidly changing urban context 4. To situate these constructions of public space and its possible trajectories within the larger discourse on public space, and to examine the viability of such a construction and interpretive model of public spaceI.Introduction to concepts and models of public space
II.Public Space in Singapore  a history
a.The Developmental City-state and its People
b.Taking to the Streets, Anatomy of a Garden City in the Tropics; and the Public at Home
III.A Closer Look at Places for People:
i.Orchard Road as a conduit public space: between nostalgia and authenticity
b.Little India: Spaces of Ethnicity, Exchange and Boundedness
c.Spaces in public housing: Spatial Practices in Transition
IV.Themes for Understanding Public Spaces: Production and Representation
a.Themes for constructing public space
b.Modes and Methods of Production and Representation of Public Space
c.Situating the Singapore Model  Basis of Differences
d.Rethinking Public Space: The Singapore Model
e.Trajectories: Aspects of Singaporean Life with possible impacts on Public Space
f.Futures and Implications for Design&llƒE