Places are complex systems with many elements that contribute to their success. A recent survey, conducted by Place Partners Director Kylie Legge, took up the chal- lenge of identifying what criteria are most valued by the people who use public places in Sydney.

As part of the survey, respondents were asked to rate eight criteria in terms of their importance in making this place attractive to them. The surveys were conducted at two locations; West Circular Quay and Martin Place, on a weekday and on a Saturday. The table below shows the percentage of all respondents who rated how ‘important’ or ‘very important’ each criterion was in terms of contributing to the attractiveness of the place as a whole. It is fascinating that the simple welcome of somewhere to sit is seen as the most important criteria of an attractive place.