Do you remember where did you sit last time when you walked into a park with all types of benches and chairs? Is there any specific reason why you sit on this bench, not the other ones? This is exactly what we hope to explore! Via our project in the Starlight Park, we would like to use the fancy technologies — sensors — to examine when and where do people sit and find out any pattern or predilection, if exists, of people deciding on the seats to take. Specifically, what types or settings of seats do people perfer and does this vary during the day? This will not only help us learn and understand people’s behavior, but will also facilitate designers and place-makers to create more attractive public spaces for our city in the future with more welcoming and favorable seats.

During our measurement, you are encouraged to enjoy your park and take your seats as usual. Sensors, which will be installed to some of the benches, are going to automatically sense your presence. Notice that only your presence and the length of that will be measured — we guarantee that none individual information nor privacy will be included in our measurement. No need to panic, and enjoy your stay!

Thanks for your understanding. If you have any question or concern about this project, you are invited to contact us directly through the following:

Kevin Kim (kk3296@columbia.edu)

Yuan Gao (yg2603@columbia.edu)

Xinyu Liu (xl2803@columbia.edu)