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 

SubCentro Las Condes

Santiago

Chile

Contributed by 
Marcello Corbo
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
January 27, 2009
May 1, 2024

transit station and public square URLS: www.subcentro.cl

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

This is the last stops of the main subway line in Santiago, at the intersection of Americo Vespucio and Apoquindo (the city's main arteries). The station and the surface were recently redeveloped to reclaim this place for the community, and the millions who use it monthly as a transit station.

Access & Linkages

The place is dominated today by those who use it as a transit station. However, due to redevelopment, it has recently become a popular destination for those who live and work nearby. The place offers excellent access and connectivity with public transportation and is walkable from all directions.

Comfort & Image

SubCentro was recently redeveloped by a company called Urban Development in a collaborative effort involving multiple municipal agencies with help from PPS. The structural changes were small but made a significant impact. The redesign included letting in more light to make the inside brighter and feel safer; barriers between the businesses were replaced with glass to create a feeling of openness, and the park design was changed to a plaza surface to encourage more public use.

Uses & Activities

Commuters pass through and stop for quick shopping while people who live and work nearby frequent the plazas for relaxation and to meet friends, or visit the shops.

Sociability

The four plazas are beautiful new meeting places and provide a great place for travelers and visitors alike to relax.

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

SubCentro has been a major transportation hub in the center of Santiago for a long time. However, the dark enclosed space became a deterrent as vendors began closing up shop and the space became a sort of haven for criminals and muggers. People would rush through SubCentro to avoid trouble. It was a place of immense potential that Santiago was recently able to harness.

Related Links & Sources

SubCentro Las Condes
SubCentro Las Condes
SubCentro Las Condes
SubCentro Las Condes
SubCentro Las Condes
SubCentro Las Condes
SubCentro Las Condes
SubCentro Las Condes

*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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