Case Studies 

Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

*Nominee 

Brookline Village

Brookline

MA

USA

Contributed by 
Suzanne Thomas
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
January 27, 2010
May 1, 2024

neighborhood \nURLS:\n

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

This is a great neighborhood shopping/walking area. There are interesting shops and restaurants up and down this curvy street. It is aesthetically pleasing. There is a mix of businesses (a yarn shop, toy store, a spa, a spiritual bookstore, clothing store, a yoga/tai chi workshop, restaurants both inexpensive and high end.) The streets are curvy and aesthetically pleasing. There are benches and other places to sit. There is a school with a park next door to it, and a beautiful big library, and a medical center.

Access & Linkages

One of the best things about Brookline Village is that it is easily accessible by both subway and bus. Many people walk here--there are sidewalks and crosswalks. Visually it is open and pleasing. Everything is in a close radius and hence easy to find.

Comfort & Image

There is a very friendly feeling about this neighborhood--always many people of all ages and gender walking around. Women with baby strollers, elderly. It is clean and well-maintained and there are benches scattered throughout. Vehicles are present but do not dominate the space.

Uses & Activities

Yes, there is always a bustle of activity of people of all ages. The space as a whole is well-used.

Sociability

I would say that mostly locals come here and that it is predominantly family and elderly oriented. There is definitely local pride here. It is a neighborhood with a high Jewish population. The vibe is well-educated and community oriented.

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

Related Links & Sources

Brookline Village
Brookline Village
Brookline Village
Brookline Village
Brookline Village
Brookline Village
Brookline Village
Brookline Village

*Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

NOMINATE A PLACE

Corrections or additions? Email info@pps.org
Comments