This Place Is…

Don’t sit here… Posts About People-Deterrents

March 2nd, 2007

Steve Portigal posted some pictures of the Embarcadero’s creative “anti-skateboard” devices. The principle is similar to those functional yet visually attractive pigeon deterrents posted about earlier. Says Steve…

It’s still ugly, but there’s an emotional component (”cute” - “fun” - “neat”) created by the whimsical shapes that counteracts that reaction quite strongly. I’m sure the original planners and architects are horrified, but it kinda mostly works.

Additionally, it feels less unwelcoming than spikes or other anti-sit devices in the same way those pigeon deterrents feel less intimidating — so maybe it also counteracts the negative feelings you might have about not being allowed so lie or skate there!

LINK: Anti-skateboard Devices on the Embarcadero
LINK: Another post about anti-skate devices and user experience

Entry Filed under: Interactions, Bad Places, Aesthetics