The Role of Public Space in Creating a Comfortable Urban Environment (on the Example of Irkutsk)

Abstract

The article discusses the purpose, functions and features of public spaces as an integral component of a comfortable urban environment. The study analyzed the state and level of performance of public spaces’ functions in Irkutsk as a part of urban life structure. We focused on characteristics and role of open and closed spaces for the youth part of the city's population, since Irkutsk, like other Siberian cities is facing a problem of the outflow of young people, caused by lack of socio-economic conditions. We found high importance of public spaces for young citizens who view them as socially inclusive, recreational, and entertaining. The study concluded that there is a necessity to strengthen civil, organizational, creative functions and the function of storing «collective memory». We put forward some ideas how to improve public spaces of Irkutsk, braoden opportunities for recreation, leisure, creativity and social development of young people.