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 

Camden Town

London

England

Contributed by 
Lisa T
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
November 10, 2004
May 1, 2024

A mix of markets, coffee shops, pubs, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, shopping, entertainment and so much more.

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

Camden Town is a densely populated area, no matter what the time or day of the week. Packed full of shoppers, locals, tourists and tons of independent shops and markets, Camden Town brings millions of people down annually for a variety of different purposes. The streets are intertwined and pedestrian friendly, lined with old unique buildings, each one different from the next. Each street brings upon new and unique experiences.

Access & Linkages

Camden Town is easily accessible from all central London districts. Dozens of train and transit lines connect with Camden town, with the main underground tube station right in the center of the commotion. On a nice day, is also easily walkable from most central districts, and the pedestrians in Camden Town tend to outnumber automobiles. It is also residential so that people who live nearby are able to use this space for all purposes (i.e. banking, grocery shopping, nightlife, transportation etc.). Hundreds of colourful, unique flyers are posted on lampposts and buildings, so finding its features and events is never a problem.

Comfort & Image

There are many outdoor patios, also sheltered from the rain. As with all heavily used areas, there tends to be a fair bit of litter on the ground, but the old-age buildings are well maintained and kept. The abundance of people at all times of the day make the streets relatively safe from any real violence and assaults, but one must always beware of pickpockets.

Uses & Activities

People use this area for a variety of purposes, ranging from shopping to entertainment to just lounging and watching life go by. People of all ages and genders use this area. There is no one age group, race or gender that outnumbers another. Evenings and nighttime tend to attract a younger crowd, due to Camden's vibrant nightlife.

Sociability

The mood in Camden tends to vary. People are quite sociable and friendly inside the establishments, but on the streets can be a bit frustrating plowing through the crowds, stepping on people and getting stepped on. Weekends tend to be the busiest, making it nearly impossible to see anything in front you but people. It would suffice to say that if one wanted to meet people from each corner of the world in one day, Camden Town would be the place to do so.

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

Related Links & Sources

Camden Town
Camden Town
This image © Jim Rees, jim.rees.org
Camden Town
Bottom two images © Nina Plett, www.geocities.com/ nina_plett
Camden Town
Camden Town
Camden Town
Camden Town
Camden Town

*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

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