STREET AS A “THIRD PLACE “

PROJECT REPORT
A DISSERTATION REPORT

(Code AR 8015)

Submitted by

NEHA V

Reg. No: 311318251093

In partial fulfilment for the award of the degree of

BACHELOR OF ARCHITECTURE
in

ARCHITECTURE

MEASI ACADEMY OF ARCHITECTURE:

CHENNAI – 14

ANNA UNIVERSITY: CHENNAI – 600

025

JUNE 2022

0
 ANNA UNIVERSITY: CHENNAI – 600

025 BONAFIDE CERTIFICATE

Certified that this project report “STREET AS A THIRD PLACE” is the

Bonafide work of NEHA V who carried out the project work under my
supervision.

Prof. M.R. MOHAMED KHALID Ar. MANJU MAATHAVAN

PRINCIPAL SUPERVISOR

MEASI Academy of Architecture, MEASI Academy of Architecture, 87,

Peters Road, Royapettah, 87, Peters Road, Royapettah,

Chennai-600014 Chennai-600014

INTERNAL EXAMINER EXTERNAL EXAMINER

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2
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

With great pleasure, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation

and gratitude to Measi Academy of Architecture for providing us the
opportunity to work on a dissertation project that has elevated my
spectrum of knowledge in the field of Architectural research and its
counterparts.

I am deeply indebted to Professor Anjali Sadanand, our dissertation

coordinator for investing great interest and time in our discussions.
She had deftly manoeuvred the paper through challenges with me and
guided me expertly on tackling the subject of the study.

Words cannot express my gratitude to my Dissertation guide, Architect

Manju Maathavan for continuously encouraging me to put my best
foot forward and do justice to this research paper. She had instilled in
me the confidence to approach this previously uncharted subject to
completion and enjoy the research process.

I would also like to thank Architect Mohideen Fathima for the timely
coordination, guidance, and support I had received from her. Special
thanks to my fellow peers Naufer Ansari, Varssni K , Mithun Ram
and my friend Pragadish Bhaskaran for aiding me during the
research process on field and for their well- thought feedback.

Lastly, I would be remiss to not thank my parents and family for their
interest, feedback, and excitement that propelled me to have an
exorbitant amount of fun while working on this paper.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

ABSTRACT ……………………………………………………………7
CHAPTER - 1……………………………………………………………8
1.1 INTRODUCTION
1.2 AIM
1.3 OBJECTIVE
1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS
1.5 SCOPE
1.6 LIMITATION
1.7 LOCATION

CHAPTER - 2…………………………………………………………12

2.1 LITERATURE STUDY

2.2 RESEARCH MEASURES & METHODOLOGY

2.3 PARAMETERS & TYPOLOGIES

CHAPTER - 3 …………………………………………………….…..27

3.1 MACRO ANALYSIS

3.2 MICRO ANALYSIS

CHAPTER - 4 ………………………………………………………...43

5.1 FINDINGS

5.2 DISCUSSIONS

5.3 CONCLUSIONS

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 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1…………………………………………………………………12

Figure 2…………………………………………………………………14

Figure 3…………………………………………………………………16

Figure 4…………………………………………………………………18

Figure 5…………………………………………………………………22

Figure 6…………………………………………………………………22

Figure 7…………………………………………………………………22

Figure 8…………………………………………………………………24

Figure 9…………………………………………………………………24

Figure 10…………………………………………………………………24

Figure 11…………………………………………………………………25

Figure 12…………………………………………………………………25

Figure 13…………………………………………………………………25

Figure 14…………………………………………………………………27

Figure 15…………………………………………………………………27

Figure 16…………………………………………………………………27

Figure 17…………………………………………………………………30

Figure 18…………………………………………………………………31

Figure 19…………………………………………………………………31

Figure 20…………………………………………………………………32

Figure 21…………………………………………………………………32

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Figure 22…………………………………………………………………33

Figure 23…………………………………………………………………34

Figure 24…………………………………………………………………34

Figure 25…………………………………………………………………35

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 LIST OF TABLES

Table 1 …………………………………………………………………17

Table 2…………………………………………………………………21

Table 3…………………………………………………………………21

Table 4…………………………………………………………………22

Table 5…………………………………………………………………24

Table 6…………………………………………………………………26

Table 7…………………………………………………………………27

Table 8…………………………………………………………………30

Table 9…………………………………………………………………33

Table 10…………………………………………………………………37

Table 11…………………………………………………………………46

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 Abstract

A third place is a term created by social scientist Ray Oldenburg as “A place that is

neither your home (primary place) or your place of work (secondary place )where one

comes to consistently visit for recreation and to collaborate with friends, neighbours,

colleagues, and once in a while strangers. . This dissertation investigates how

third-place establishments are distinguished from other establishments on the Indian

Street . A profoundly bustling commercial area in triplicane was taken as the basis for

this study where there is a blend of culture ,activities and businesses . Surveys and

interviews were conducted to comprehend the intangible characteristics of a third place .

User patterns and visual surveys were taken to observe tangible architectural

qualities.Firstly, a study was done on a macro scale on random individuals on the street

to comprehend the variety of people and activities occurring on the street to conclude

that the street is a third place. Then, a micro study of 4 typologies of businesses that

characterise as a third place was then done to mention observable facts on client

inclination and visual architectural characteristics of a third place on the street.The

characteristics were analysed based on two components of architecture -

tangible(morphology) and intangible (behavioural). The discoveries propose that the

comfort provided by the businesses to their customers is based on the time spent there

by the customers and vice versa, businesses that have space for parking vehicles yielded

more customers,the businesses in close proximity to offices saw more business during

peak hours. Each typology had their own physical counters/designs to serve and display

goods and to protect said merchandise, proximity to religious buildings has an influence

8
on the number of regulars and routine visits by them , personal space is a variable

factor, a third place is subjective to the individual and finally, there is a clear sensory

experience .

Keywords: Street, Third Place ,Tea Kadai, Cafe, Behavioural, Tangible.

Chapter 1:

Introduction:

1.1 Characterising and defining a third place:

With the end goal of this review, a third place is characterised as a business on the
Street that was recognized as a gathering place by individuals who frequently visited the
street .

In the Great Good Place, Ray Oldenburg (1999) emphasises the importance of
neighbourhood gathering places in enhancing the lives of people. Oldenburg describes
these gathering locations as third places, and further states that third places are not first
or second places.

He defines a first place as “the home—the most important place of all.” It is the first
regular and predictable environment of the growing child and the one that will have
greater effect upon his or her development” 1And a second place as” the work
setting,which reduces the individual to a single, productive role. It fosters competition
and motivates people to rise above their fellow creatures. But it also provides the means
to a living, improves the material quality of life, and structures endless hours of time for
a majority who could not structure it on their own.”2

1
Oldenburg, 1999,The Great Good Place
2
Oldenburg, 1999,The Great Good Place

9
Oldenburg describes third places as “a generic designation for a great variety of public
places that host the regular, voluntary, informal, and happily anticipated gatherings of
individuals beyond the realms of home and work”3. Away from home and work, people
need informal social spaces, or , that provide an opportunity to connect with the people
in communities and give a balance in their lives.

The concept of "third place" is related to the concept of public, A quote I would like to
mention here by John Ruskin, an English writer,philosopher and polymath : ”The
measure of any great civilization is its cities and a measure of a city's greatness is to be
found in the quality of its public spaces, its parks and squares”4. Public spaces are those
that accommodate the regular, voluntary, and informal gatherings of individuals beyond
the realms of home and work. Through the years, the the street as a public place has
changed drastically in response to the development of technology;

There is a clear evolution of the street as a third place. The street as a third place has
been redefined owing to technological advancement where we have moved away from
communication based solely on face to face interaction but also where we live in a
world where human interaction is still and always will be a strong necessity to survive.

This dissertation intends to collate the qualities of a third place with the characteristics
defined by Oldenburg and further analyse the characteristics of the street that make it a
third place.

The purpose to undertake this study is on the grounds that, the qualities of a third-place
are notable in its intangible - social point of view and not much is examined on the
architectural qualities that make it a third place or qualities that support a third place.

A third place is a place , a place is a physical dimension I.e; an actual setting that people
form relationships with.

Thus architects should intently relate human behaviour with the measurable aspects of
design to create meaningful spaces.

3
Oldenburg, 1999,The Great Good Place
4
Ruskin ,1983

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To comprehend the design qualities of the street as a third place, first, we examine if the
road is a third place through surveys.

Secondly, we identify establishments ( typologies of said foundations) that make the

road a third place.

further, we identify architectural qualities of the typologies and set parameters that
characterize third places.

Finally, we discuss our findings on the qualities of a third place on a street .

1.2 Aim:

To study and analyse a commercial, busy street in Chennai and discuss what
characteristics about the street make it a third place.

1.3 Objective:

- To compare characteristics of a “Third Place” defined by Ray Oldenburg with the

street to conclude that it is a third place.

-to identify typologies of establishments on the street that qualify as third places.

- to derive parameters from said typologies to analyse what makes them a third place
architecturally

1.4 Research question:

1. What architecture characteristics do third place establishments possess that

differentiate them from other establishments?

1.5 Scope:

The scope of the study is on the Triplicane high road and adjacent streets BV Naike
road and Parthasarathy street where numerous typologies of businesses are functioning .
Being consistently active and has a religious & historic value .

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1.6 Limitations:

The study is limited only to the food and beverage embellishments on the Triplicane
high road and adjacent streets and not other typologies.

The location is limited only to the said streets and not other streets or areas.

1.7 Location:

Figure1 : location of area of study

The research for this dissertation was conducted on Triplicane High Road, and adjacent
streets- Dr Besant Road and Perumal koil street in Chennai. These streets are well
connected via road. Triplicane is predominantly a residential area where Triplicane high
road is a bustling mixed-use- commercial & residential street which has a combination
of small, independently owned, local businesses and a few bigger shops. It is a historic
area with mostly older buildings, with a couple of new structures. Most buildings are
built to the road, leaving no setbacks. Besides a couple of newer structures with
commercial space, all structures range from one to four stories in height. Triplicane high
road was chosen for this study given its commercial street quality where the street is
consistently busy, there is a blend of culture coming about because of the proximity to

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the Parthasarathy temple and the ice house Masjid . The road has different typologies of
businesses to notice for grouping them into Third Places or not.

Chapter 2:

2.1 Literature review :

Public spaces are a significant part of public life. There are numerous characteristics of
a public space that makes it appealing and easy to use for the users. There are studies
that support this, for instance, "life between buildings" by Jan Gehl (Gehl,1971)suggests
that public spaces are a dimension of architecture that uphold public life and interaction
and speak about the importance of quality of public open spaces for a lively and healthy
future. There are additionally many social theories and studies that talk about the social
characteristics of public spaces that influence place-making. For example, the concept
of "Third Place " by Ray Oldenburg speaks about the intangible characteristics of a
public space that creates a sense of attachment and loyalty to the place by the regulars.
Consolidating these two ideas of social characteristics of a public place and design
characteristics of a public place, many have started to think about the influence of the
peoples' needs and activities on the design of public space or urban planning. For
example, Jon Lang in “Creating architectural theory”(Jon Lang , 1987) speaks about
how designers should respond to the emotional aspect of human behaviour and their
activities.

The Great Good Place (Oldenburg ,1999)

“Third place “ is a term coined by Ray Oldenburg in his book the great good place. a
third place is a place that is neither your home (first place ) nor your place of work
(second place ). It is a place where one comes to consistently visit for recreation and to
collaborate with friends, neighbours, colleagues, and once in a while strangers. Usually,
third places are seen in coffee shops, parks, restaurants, bars, recreation centres, etc.
Ray Oldenburg speaks about a few characteristics of a third-place such as;

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a) a neutral ground-in which people can enter and leave the space whenever they want
and no obligation. b) a social leveller or a level- where one’s rank or status in the
society is of no importance c) conversation is the main activity of a third place. d) good
accessibility and accommodation; third places must be accessible for people and can
accommodate their needs. e) the regulars; third places have some regulars that help to
give the space its characteristic and they bring in more regulars. f) a low profile; third
places have a homely feel. g) playful mood; the tone of conversation in third places are
never marked with tension but they have a playful nature. h) a home away from home
or a place with psychological comfort that occupants might expect at home.

Figure 2: characteristics of a third place , source: www.researchgate.com

Life between Buildings (Gehl, 1971)

What makes Gehl’s suggestions particularly appropriate is that he starts by

inquiring as to why individuals head outside and what they do outside. The
conclusion is human psychology, the craving to interact with others, regardless of

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whether just in a brief way through looking and tuning in. Designers should have
the thought of considering: the user’s interaction with the built environment. If we
consider public spaces separate from the users then, we are creating more
non-functional spaces. In any case, assuming we consider these spaces with regards
to their access, use, and the connection between the users and the built
environment, then we are making a course for progress. With respect to this study,
we understand that public spaces are a key component in human psychology
regardless of the time spent there. Humans crave interaction and the street is a
public place that plays a part in facilitating this daily dose of interaction for the
users.

Creating Architectural Theory ( Jon Lang, 1987)

This book examines the influence of the built environment on human

emotions,social interaction and aesthetics . if emphasises the need to understand
behavioural sciences in the field of architecture.

2.2 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY :

Measures

Qualitative research was the method used to provide insights to understand

behavioural aspects; the user preferences and emotions in the study site (intangible
qualities). The reason for the interview was to get data from individuals who
regularly use the Triplicane high road. A Questionnaire was used as an instrument to
understand the perspective of individuals who distinguished the place of visit as a
third place. The survey got some information on people chosen at random about
their regularity with the study site , religion, age,occupation,income group and
reason and purposes behind visiting the businesses in the study site. With
comparison to Oldenburg's defined characteristics of a third place,their responses
were contrasted with the said characteristics of neutral ground, leveller ,conversation
is main activity, accessibility and accommodation, the regulars, a low profile, the
mood is playful and a home away from home. To qualify as a third place, the

15
respondents needed to give answers supporting the qualities asked by means of the
poll.

figure3: questionnaire

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A visual survey was conducted to study the architectural qualities of a third
place.The parameters for the visual survey were based on : a)comfort, b) parking ,c)
social function d) physical counters.

Parameters a) Comfort Comfort provided to the customers by the

establishment.
b) Parking Availability of parking
c) Social Proximity to religious buildings and place of work.
function
d) Physical Counter design and use
counters

Table 1: Visual survey parameters

Methodology

Social scientist Ray Oldenburg only talks about the intangible qualities of a third place
according to a social scientist's perspective. This dissertation aims to find the
architectural characteristics of a third place through parameters in view of architectural
qualities. The areas of study are split into two elements of architecture: Morphological
and behavioural.

-Tangible (morphological): Measurable qualities of architecture, tangibility here.

The tangible qualities are further classified as parking [ (a) flow aspect (b) space
available for parking ] , counters, comfort (anthropometry), social function (proximity
to religious structures & offices)

- Intangible (behavioural): Abstract qualities which can only be experienced by the

user. Therefore, it deals with physicality.

The intangible qualities are further classified as: Sensory, gender, comfort:[(a)quality of
light breeze, etc,( b)personal pace] and social function.

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Flowchart showing parameters of study:

Figure 4: flowchart of parameters of the study

2.3 PARAMETERS & TYPOLOGIES :

Parameters:

Morphology

1. Parking : A space to halt a vehicle temporarily by the side of the road in a way
that is convenient until required. A space for parking is an attractive convenience to
the users of the business . Parking can affect the ability of a place to be considered as
a third place .No customer is willing to drive around to find parking when they are
out to visit a store. In the event that they can't rapidly find a spot close to a store, the
stores might well lose business. They might pick other enterprises with better
facilities Given the absence of adequate parking space.

Flow aspect: Without adequate parking space, it is not possible for a business to
achieve its maximum potential. For instance, a café business has seating to
accommodate 20 individuals at a time. One visitor requires roughly 30 minutes to
get done with eating their snack or finishing their beverage. Hence, the business has
the potential of hosting 20 customers every 30 minutes.In any case, in the event that
the parking spot at the café can leave just 5 vehicles at once, customers are restricted
to just 5 spots every 30 minutes. Even if 2 individuals for each vehicle is expected,a
sum of only 10 customers is achieved , the business potential is not reached. It is

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essential to have sufficient parking to accommodate the rate of flow of customers.
Each typology has a different rate of flow of users

2. Counters : small to mid scale restaurants usually offer meals at a counter(counter

service ) or prepare food at a counter that is visible to the consumers. Casual food
items (snacks for tiffin) are sometimes served from the counter or from a pantry
inside the restaurant.

Each of the typologies of establishments have their unique style of counters to meet
their requirements. For example, a tea kadai may have only one box counter to store
goods and a gas to prepare tea. A cafe may have a juice counter specifically
designed to make juices, a gas stove for tea and a separate counter for billing . a
restaurant may have only one counter for billing and a kitchen inside the kitchen to
prepare food .

The counter design influences the identity of a place and one can instantly recognize
the typology of establishment and what kind of food/ refreshments they serve by just
looking at the design of the counters.

3. Comfort: Anthropometry impacts space requirements for furniture and fittings.

For example, a cafe must have enough space to comfortably fit their customers
(individuals and groups) who have come to quickly drink their tea/coffee, a
hand-wash and a few seats for those who want to spend more time ; a restaurant
must have enough space & furniture to comfortably fit a few families or groups of
friends, fans and toilets ; an office building must have enough space to fit desks,
air-conditioning units, communal areas, meeting rooms, and so on.

The idea of comfort is straightforwardly related with creating spaces of physical

well-being. Characteristics like noise level, temperature, breeze etc.

4. Social Function : spaces that regulate social communication such as landmarks,

historic buildings, places of work, religious buildings etc can have an influence on
place making. Proximity to these buildings are of important consideration.

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Behavioural

1. Sensory : A space is significantly more than simply its appearance. Textures,

scents, sounds and visual elements can strongly influence the user's experience.
sensory experience can change the relationship between users and the built
environment.

Users’ sentiment is affected by the consumption environment; the design and

creation of ambience can create a favourable consumption environment for a
business, building good customer relationships . Since a good physical environment
affects the user 's mood positively, which affects the feel of the place, it is an
important factor in place making. The ambience affects specific attitudes and
behavioural responses which influences regularity of the users, and lengthen their
time spent in an establishment

List of Businesses That Were Considered Third Places and the Ones That Were
Not by Users of the Three Main Streets via answers from questionnaire.The
questions were based on the list of characteristics of a third place defined by
Oldenburg.

Business Groupings Third place -

yes/no

Group 1: Businesses considered third places

Cafe yes

Restaurants/mess yes

Biryani shop yes

Tea stall/potti kadai yes

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 Ice-cream shop yes

Group 2: Businesses not considered third

places

Convenience shop no

Hair salon no

hardware no

hostel no

Bank no

Table 2: list of businesses that were considered as a third place and not

TYPOLOGIES CHOSEN:

TYPOLOGY 1.POTTI 2.CAFE 3.BIRIYANI 4.MESS/

KADAI SHOP RESTAURANT

DESCRIPTION A tiny shop on A small scale A specific food A local

the street , cafe serving shop serving restaurant
called “box food and only biryani to serving local
shops”because refreshments. either consume cuisines in the
they are shaped immediately or area.
like boxes. as takeaway
parcels.

Table 3. Typologies chosen :

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1. Tea/Potti Kadai

Figures: 5,6,7

Scale -Very Small

Area: 15m 2

Rate of flow of people: 5-15mins (approx)

Activities- consuming snacks and tea, buying of basic provisions

Oldenburg’s characteristics

Neutral Ground

Leveller

Conversation is the main activity

Accessibility and Accommodation

The Regulars

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A Low profile , the mood is playful

A home away from home

Table: 4

Low Moderate High Very high

The tea kadai or the box shop is a small cuboid structure where one is served tea, coffee,
water, cigarettes, papers and snacks through a small counter or opening .Sometimes it is
placed in a small recession between buildings or as a small portion on the ground floor
of a building closed with shutters. Transactions happen over the small opening in the
metal structure or wooden top counter in which biscuits and other snacks are stored .
This type of establishment is widely popular in the city where there are constantly
people on the move . Many times people just want a quick beverage and catch a bite
without having to spend too much time in the process. Thoughts and small talk is shared
over a cup of tea at a modest cost. This type of establishment usually does not provide
accommodation to their customers in the form of tables or chairs due to the fast flow of
people. Sometimes, a bench is provided by the tea kadais when it's located on a street
that's not very busy where people tend to take the time to sit comfortably and enjoy
their beverage or snack as opposed to the people on the move in busy streets who just
want to be in and out.On the street level it acts as a place that binds people together over
quick interactions.

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2.Cafe

Figures 8,9,10

Scale - small

Area: 30-50m2

Rate of flow of people : 10-30 minutes (approximately)

Activities: Consuming food (snacks and tiffin) and refreshments

Oldenburg’s characteristics

Neutral Ground

Leveller

Conversation is the main activity

Accessibility and Accommodation

The Regulars

24
 A Low profile , the mood is playful

A home away from home

Table :5

Low Moderate High Very high

The café itself is small and interesting with very few tables and seats. It is comfortable
and cosy, and inviting to all ,especially to those who frequent them. Regardless of the
restricted seating, service is usually speedy and efficient.this type of establishment often
serves quick bites, coffee, tea, juices , soft drinks, and other nit-bits. This can be
considered a slightly elaborate version of a tea kadai where there is proper seating and
accommodation adding to the services and goods that are sold there. The cafe is a
widely loved concept of the food and beverage industry all around the world.

3.Biryani Shop

Figures : 11,12,13

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Scale - middle

Area: 50-100m2

Rate of flow of people : 10-30 minutes (approximately)

Activities: Consuming food (snacks and tiffin) and refreshments

Oldenburg’s characteristics

Neutral Ground

Leveller

Conversation is the main activity

Accessibility and Accommodation

The Regulars

A Low profile , the mood is playful

A home away from home

Table:6

Low Moderate High Very high

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The biryani shop is a specific shop that serves biryani and accompaniments . Normally,
it is packed up in parcels/packages for the customers and occasionally food is served at
the shop for the few customers who want to eat there. The biryani shop is popular with
the Muslim community where biryani is a highly beloved food . food is prepared and
packed systematically alongside taking orders and serving customers eating there. Many
types of biryani are served there with different accompaniments .

4. Mess

Figures 14,15,16

Scale : Large Area: 50-100m2

Rate of flow of people : 20-60 minutes (approximately)

Activities: Consuming food (snacks/ tiffin , meals) and refreshments

Oldenburg’s characteristics

Neutral Ground

Leveller

27
Conversation is the main activity

Accessibility and Accommodation

The Regulars

A Low profile , the mood is playful

A home away from home

Table:7

Low Moderate High Very high

The mess is a typology that is similar to a restaurant that serves exclusively local
cuisine. Tiffin is often served at breakfast and supper time, set-meals are served during
lunch and dinner and certain foods and beverages like dosa and coffee is served
throughout the day. The mess is a comfortable space that serves food that is close to the
heart. People who come to the mess are often visiting there to eat food that reminds
them of home. The food is often affordable and the mess offers ample space to the
customers to spend quality time with their friends, colleagues,loved ones or even alone.

28
 CHAPTER 3

3.1 MACRO ANALYSIS :

A survey was conducted on the streets selected as the sample : Triplicane high road ,
BV Naike road and Perumail Koil street where questionnaire responses were collected
from random people on the street.

The motivation for this survey was to confirm that the street as an urban element is a
third place.

The parameters of this survey were conducted based on the characteristics of a third
place as defined by Oldenburg .

The characteristics are as follows :

1. A neutral ground and a leveller - The street must have a mix of people in terms of
age groups, religion, gender, occupation and social status to act as a leveller for anybody
. In absence of this variety , a street does not function as a neutral place where one can
come and go as please without any obligations and discomfort.

2. Conversation is the main activity - vehicular commuting being considered as an

exception, the street must create a space where the commuters on foot can be actively
seen conversing with other people .

3. Accessibility and accommodation - The street should be accommodating to those who

visit the location and should be easy to access for all I;e the location should be easily
identified and accessed by all . In absence of doing so, the street only acts as a medium
for the selected people who have access to it contradicting the third place characteristic.

4. Regulars- only if a place experiences a consistent flow of regulars, it can be

considered a place beloved by people. The regulars develop a place making an
attachment to the street .

29
5. A playful mood and a home away from home- The street should act as a place where
one feels at ease and at home but not with the responsibilities and conditions that apply
with being at home . ie; feeling a sense of being in one’s place in a light and playful
environment.

Survey results (based on the parameters of the study):

1. neutral ground & leveller :

Sub Parameters Description

a. Religion - 17 people surveyed. (fig 17) Hinduism is the

largest followed
religion in
Chennai city with
80.73 %. Islam is
the second most
followed religion
in the city of
Chennai with
roughly 9.45 %
adherents.
Triplicane has a
dense Muslim
community.Hence,
there is an evident
variety in the
religion found in
the survey
area.[no]

30
b.Occupation- 17 people surveyed (fig 18) A mix of
occupations was
observed where
38.5% were
workers , 23.1%
owned a business ,
30.8% were
school or college
going students and
the remaining
were practicing
professionals.

c.Age group- 24 people surveyed (fig 19) Majority of

individuals
studied were
between the age
25-60 .A harmony
between the most
youthful and
oldest age range
was seen with
larger individuals
present on the
street.

31
d.Gender- 25 people surveyed (fig 20) A significant
imbalance can be
seen in the male to
female ratio on the
street.

e.Income group - 12 people surveyed (fig 21) With the majority

of the people
belonging to a
middle income
group house
old,very few in the
daily wage income
group with a
18.2% and a
36.4% in the high
income group,
there is still a mix
of people seen on
the street.

Table :8

32
Sub- Parameters considered for neutral ground and leveller:

SATISFY OLDENBURG’S THIRD

PLACE CHARACTERISTICS OF
SUB PARAMETERS
NEUTRAL GROUND AND
LEVELLER?

a. RELIGION YES

b. OCCUPATION YES

c. AGE YES

d. GENDER NO

e. INCOME GROUP YES

Table :9 - sub parameters of neutral ground and leveller

From the above table, we observe that 4/5 of the sub parameters satisfy Oldenburg’s
characteristics of a third place (neutral ground & leveller).

Hence, the characteristic of neutral ground and leveller is satisfied on the street.

2. Conversation is the main activity - 12 people surveyed & visual survey

fig 22

33
Except for commuting on the street, the main activities were conversation, to meet or
interact with someone.

Hence, the characteristic of conversation being the main activity is satisfied on the
street.

3. Accessibility and accommodation - 9 people surveyed

fig 23

92.3 % of the persons interviewed felt like the street Is accommodating to them and is
easily accessible.

fig 24

76.9 % of the persons interviewed felt like the street Is accommodating to them

Hence, the characteristic of accessibility and accommodation is satisfied on the street.

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4.Regulars - 8 people surveyed

fig 25

100 % of the people interviewed were people who frequently visited the street for
some purpose or casually to meet people.

Hence, the characteristic of regulars is satisfied on the street.

5.A home away from home, a playful mood

Answers given by the people seen on the street asking them questions that would help
us understand if they consider the street a third place .

mood of place? - 7 people surveyed

Answers:

Narendran :“Active”

Abdul :“Always busy”

Viji: “Comfortable”

Umar: “Happy”

Ganesan: “Fun”

Azgar :“Active always”

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Aalim: “Light”

describe the place (why you visit) - 8 people surveyed

Answers:

Narendran : “Comfortable here , convenient for all friends”

Abdul: “Best tea and bajji”

Viji: “Good place to take a break from work”

Umar : “Close to work , good food”

Ganesan : “Been coming here for years , my favourite place”

Azgar : “Hangout with friends everyday . Our favourite spot”

Aalim : ”Know the owner (relationship with business owner ) . Nice spot for tea and
talking “

Renuka: “my spot , i come here once in every few weeks to meet old college friends”

Based on the answers given by the interviewees, we can conclude that the street gives
people a sense of comfort and sense of one’s place .ther interviewees also use words
like “fun”, “happy” , “light” and comfortable to describe the place .

Hence, the street satisfies the characteristics of a low profile, a playful mood and a
home away from home .

From the above study, we can conclude that the street as a whole serves as a third place
in the Indian context where people consider the sleet as a place of solace , regularly

36
visit, meet both - friends and strangers and also find the street both accommodating and
accessible.

3.2 MICRO ANALYSIS :

A micro analysis on four typologies chosen on a visual basis where people were
actively seen conversing and interacting with each other.

The four typologies fall under the food and refreshment category as the macro analysis
guided us towards an understanding that the food and refreshment category of
establishments on the street were important elements in place making to consumers.

The micro analysis was done based on the parameters of architectural qualities to make
observable notes on the factors that make it a third place architecturally.

The parameters are as follows:

Architectural Parameter Sub Parameters

Categories
1. Parking a)Space for parking and b)Flow of rate of
vehicles in and out of the parking space to be
observed.
2. Counters a)Type of counter ,b)design ,c) purpose
3. Comfort Comfort provided in terms of a)physical
Morphology objects ie;Chairs, tables, fans,etc - the
anthropometry of the space and b)natural
conditions like breeze, light , noise.
4. Personal space Individual spatial factor- Availability of
personal space.
5. Social function Proximity to religious buildings and place of
work.
Behavioural 1. Sensory Impact of ambience- Behavioural responses
2. Comfort Psychological comfort
3. Personal Space Personal space desired and space willing to be
shared by users .

Table :10 Parameters of study

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The four typologies are as follows :

A. Tea Kadai - A very small scale “box shop “ of roughly 10-15 sqm area where tea,
coffee and quick accompaniments are served .
B. Cafe - A small scale coffee shop that serves snacks and refreshments such as hot
beverages, soft drinks, juices , biscuits, samosas, sandwiches etc.
C. Biriyani shop - A specific food typology shop that serves biryani as well as
parcels/packages of varieties of biryani .
D. Mess - A typology of restaurant that serves local cuisine vegetarian food and is
popular in the locality.

Analysis of Typologies based on the parameters:

A. Tea Kadai / Potti Kadai/ Box Shop:

General visual analysis

The tea kadai is a small shop located on the triplicane high road. A small recessed area
of 15 sqm (3mx5m) opened and closed by the shopkeeper at 6am and 11pm
respectively. A metal shutter is pulled down to close the shop . this model of the tea
kadai is slightly different from the traditional cart model of potti kadai but functions in
the same way .
The shopkeeper has a stove in the shop where he makes tea and coffee and serves it
along with some snacks on demand . The tea kadai also sells papers, cigarettes and other
nitbits.

Analysis based on parameters

Morphology:

1.parking :
a) Space for parking : The space available for parking was observed to be very less.
A maximum of 4-5 bikes can be parked in front of the shop along the road
pavement. Rectangular area of 8x2.2 was utilised as a parking space in front of

38
 the shop. No cars or larger vehicles could be accommodated in front of the tea
kadai.
b) Flow of rate of vehicles: The rate of flow of vehicles was observed to be at a very
fast pace. Customers spent approximately 5-15 minutes at the shop which meant
their vehicles also flowed in and out at the interval of every 5-10 minutes.

2. Counters :
a) Type of counter : The potti kadai has a single counter , display unit in this case to
showcase biscuits and small provisions .
b) Design : A portion of the counter can be folded up for the seller to pass in and
out of the shop.A smaller counter inside the shop is used as a base for a stove
where tea and other hot beverages are prepared by the shopkeeper.
c) Purpose: Over the unit, transactions happen between the consumer and seller.The
single unit plays an important role in the identity of the shop, just by looking at it
one can predict the type of goods that are sold there

3.Comfort :
a) Physical objects : Comfort in terms of chairs, tables and fans are not provided by
the tea kadai as these physical comforts are not required by the users. The user
stops for barely 5-10 minutes to smoke a cigarette or drink a cup of tea for which
seating and accommodation is not desired.
b) Natural conditions : The tea kadai offers an open space on the street pavement to
its customers. The street is exposed to the natural conditions of the weather such
as heat , wind and rain . The general users majoritarily visit the tea kadai in the
morning on their way to work or in the evening on the way back from work when
the weather conditions are not harsh. Other users who visit the tea kadai during
the day when the temperature is especially high in summers especially, don't
spend more than 5 minutes at the front of the shop. Hence, even though the
comfort affected by natural conditions is low, the users are not significantly
affected by the bad weather . On the other hand, when the weather is pleasant,
users enjoy the cool wind and misty air.

4. Personal Space :
a) Individual spatial factor : Personal space on the pavement outside the tea kadai is
significantly low . During peak hours when people leave work , stop on the way
to work or visit the tea kadai during their break time, the place is crowded and
people are pushing in towards the counter to buy their cup of tea.

5.Social function :

39
 a) Proximity: The tea kadai is located along other commercial shops and in close
proximity to places of work on the adjoining main roads. It is located in close
proximity to the Ice House Masjid where people flow out of post prayer to the tea
kadai

Behavioural :

1. Sensory : An active and social vibe is experienced in the tea kadai with sounds from
people actively conversing among themselves and the shopkeeper. Smell from freshly
brewed coffee, tea and fried snacks spreads beyond the tea kadai towards the street
which attracts pedestrians on the street to the tea kadai.

2. Comfort : Psychological comfort is low in the tea kadai for women as the majority of
customers are men . Territorial effect of men in their space creates a zone of discomfort
and an uninviting environment towards women. Men on the other hand experience a
high sense of psychological comfort in their territory.
3.Personal space : Personal space desired by the users of the tea kadai is on the lower
end. The users don't mind sharing their space with strangers as time of interaction is
low. Hence, personal space and personal space desired is low.

B. Cafe :

General visual analysis

The cafe is a slightly larger version of the potti kadai . It is a space of 45 square metres
where hot beverages , juices and snacks are served. Three counters - one for monetary
transactions, one for making juice and another one for preparing hot beverages are
placed along the corners of the space . A small kitchen is placed in the back of the shop
where snacks are prepared .The kitchen is closed off with a wall with a single door that
is only accessed by the staff .

Analysis based on parameters

Morphology:

1.parking :
c) Space for parking : The space available for parking was observed to be adequate.
A maximum of 10-15 bikes can be parked in front of the shop along the road
pavement. Rectangular area of 16mx2.2m was utilised as a parking space in front

40
 of the shop. two cars or one large vehicle such as a van can be accommodated in
front of the tea kadai.
d) Flow of rate of vehicles: The rate of flow of vehicles was observed to be at a
moderately fast pace. Customers spent approximately 15-30 minutes at the shop
which meant their vehicles also flowed in and out at the interval of every 15-30
minutes.

2. Counters :
d) Type of counter : The cafe has three units. One for monetary transactions where
the shop manager sits behind on a chair,one unit for preparing juice and a third
unit for preparing hot beverages.
e) Design : The main counter where the shop manager sits is a tall desk where
documents and money can be stored . A few butter biscuits, sachets of mouth
freshners and paan are placed on the top of the desk for customers to pick as they
leave. The manager sits behind the desk on a chair.
f) Purpose: A juice counter where fresh fruits are arranged on the top slab and juice
is made by the staff behind the counter ,this counter is visually exposed to the
customers so they can see their drinks being prepared and the third counter is a
tea and beverage counter where hot drinks such as tea, coffee, boost, horlicks etc
is prepared on an induction stove by the staff and served immediately to the
customers. This counter too is exposed to the customers to see their beverages
being prepared.

3.Comfort :
c) Physical objects : Comfort in terms of chairs, tables and fans were provided by
the cafe as these physical comforts are a requirement by the users. The user
spends approximately 15-30 minutes in the cafe to finish their beverage or snacks
while they spend time with their friends or colleagues.
d) Natural conditions : The cafe offers a closed space to its customers from the harsh
weather during summers but is also open in the front for customers to enjoy the
monsoon breeze during the colder months. The cafe is a comfortable space for the
customers throughout the day.

4. Personal Space :
b) Individual spatial factor : Personal space in the cafe is low during peak hours
when there is a large flow of people coming in at the same time. Customers often
share tables at these times with strangers. During other times of the day when the
shop is not very busy, there is a high level of personal space where customers
create an invisible barrier between themselves and the rest of the cafe .

41
5.Social function :
b) Proximity: The cafe is located in very close proximity to the Ice House Masjid .
Hence, a large flow of people is seen post prayer everyday into the cafe for their
cup of tea and snacks. The cafe is located on the edge of Triplicane High Road
where there are major offices . The working crowd take their breaks in the cafe
almost everyday.

Behavioural :

1. Sensory : An interactive and social vibe is experienced in the cafe with sounds from
people actively conversing among themselves and with the waiters. Automatic smell
from the freshly pressed juices and snacks immerses the cafe and the entrance to it.

2. Comfort : Psychological comfort is fairly high in the cafe as the customers are
physically protected and comfortable which directly affects their state of mind.

3.Personal space : Personal space desired by the users of the cafe during peak hours is
high. Customers are much more comfortable with sharing their space with the company
they intend on spending time with rather than strangers.

C. Biriyani shop

General visual analysis

The Biryani shop is a specific shop that serves only varieties of biryanis and
accompaniments. The shop creates a sense of identity for the area it exists in. The major
muslim community in chennai resides in and around Triplicane and as a result we see
the popular biryani shop established in Triplicane. The shop is busy throughout the day
with customers standing in long queues to pick up their orders.

Analysis based on parameters

Morphology:

1.parking :
e) Space for parking : The space available for parking was observed to be less than
adequate. A maximum of 15-20 bikes can be parked in front of the shop along the
road pavement. A few cars can be parked along the opposite side of the road. No
designated parking space is allotted for parking cars.

42
 f) Flow of rate of vehicles: The rate of flow of vehicles was observed to be at a
moderately fast pace. Customers spent approximately 10-30 minutes at the shop
which meant their vehicles also flowed in and out at the interval of every 10-30
minutes.The customers picking up parcels spend lesser time at the shop as
compared to the customers who stop to eat at the shop.

2. Counters :
g) Type of counter : The biryani shop is split into 3 portions divided by walls. Two
out of the three portions parcels and hands the packages to the customer waiting
in line through a glass partition between the kitchen area and outside.One of the
portions serves as the administration area where recipes and payments are made.
h) Design : The main counter where the shop manager sits is a small table over
which receipts are prepared and payments are made . The kitchen has counters
where food is prepared along with gas stoves.
i) Purpose: Food is prepared in the counters inside the kitchen and the transaction
counter is divided with a glass partition between customers and staff.

3.Comfort :
e) Physical objects : Comfort in terms of chairs, tables and fans were not provided
by the shop as these physical comforts are not a requirement by the users. Only
slabs of narrow table tops attached to the wall were provided for the customers
eating at the shop.Majority of the customers visited the shop only for parcels.
f) Natural conditions : The space where customers stand in queue to pick up their
orders is only partially covered by a corrugated steel sheet. The customers are
exposed to the harsh weather . For the customers visiting the shop during the day,
this creates an unfavourable experience for them.

4. Personal Space :
c) Individual spatial factor : Personal space in the biryani shop is low during peak
hours when there is a large flow of people coming in at the same time. Customers
often stand in long queues with strangers to pick up their parcels.

5.Social function :
c) Proximity: The cafe is located in very close proximity to the ice house masjid and
many commercial shops and offices.

Behavioural :

1. Sensory : A highly active environment is experienced in front of the shop between

the customers as well as the staff leading to high noise levels . The smell of biryani

43
spreads throughout the street from the freshly made biryani . The smell of biryani gives
a sense of comfort to the locals in the area.

2. Comfort : Psychological comfort is low in the shop as the customers are physically
exposed to strangers directly affects their self awareness and state of mind.

3.Personal space : Personal space desired by the customers of the biryani shop is low as
everyone is waiting in queue to pick up their parcels and get on with their day.

D. Mess / Restaurant

General visual analysis

The mess is a restaurant that serves local cuisine in the area .The mess is a highly loved
place due to the food served there that is close to one’s heart. Just like the biryani shop,
the mess too adds to the identity of the area as Triplicane is populous with the tamil
brahmin population. The mess acts as a landmark in the parthasarathy street .
Local cuisines such as idli, dosa, vada ,pongal etc are popularly served throughout the
day along with tea and coffee. Meals are served during lunch and dinner time.

Analysis based on parameters

Morphology:

1.parking :
g) Space for parking : The space available for parking was observed to be
in-adequate. A maximum of 3-4 bikes can be parked in front of the shop along
the road pavement. No cars can be parked along the street. This affects the aspect
of accommodation .
h) Flow of rate of vehicles: The rate of flow of vehicles was observed to be at a slow
pace. Customers spent approximately 20- 60 minutes at the shop which meant
their vehicles also flowed in and out at the interval of every 20-60 minutes.
Customers spent more time at their table eating their meal .
2. Counters :
Type of counter : The mess had one desk unit for receipts and monetary
transactions at the entrance/exit. Counters were not seen in the mess seating area .

3.Comfort :

44
 g) Physical objects : Comfort in terms of chairs, tables and fans were provided by
the mess as these physical comforts are a requirement by the users. Multiple
tables and chairs to seat and eat and multiple wall fans were placed strategicalls
to reach all ends of the mess dining area.
h) Natural conditions : The space is fully protected from the harsh summer heat as it
is an indoor area. Large windows on one wall of the mess let in and out natural
breeze.

4. Personal Space :
d) Individual spatial factor : Personal space in the mess is high . People come to
spend time with their own company and are not willing to share their space with
strangers.

5.Social function :
d) Proximity: The cafe is located in very close proximity to the Perumai Koil
(temple). Visitors of the temple often stop at the mess for a quick meal or a cup of
coffee.

Behavioural :

1. Sensory : A moderately active environment is experienced in the mess between the

customers resulting in a playful and light noise accumulation. The smell of dosa and
sambar spreads throughout the mess. The smell of local food gives a sense of comfort to
the locals visiting the mess.

2. Comfort : Psychological comfort is high in the mess as the customers are physically
protected from the environment and strangers which directly affects their self awareness
and state of mind.

3.Personal space : Personal space desired by the customers of the biryani shop is high as
customers are only willing to share their space with a known company.

Chapter 4:

4.1 Findings :

The findings of the study - Comparing the typologies chosen to the p[parameters of the
study to assess the architectural qualities that make it a third place.

45
Architectural Parameters Tea Kadai Cafe Biryani Mess
Categories Shop
Morphology Parking Low Ample Less than Inadequate
parking parking desired parking
capacity. observed parking capacity.
observed
Counters Adequate & Ample & Adequate & Adequate &
functional functional functional functional
Comfort Low High Low High
Personal Low Moderate Low High
Space
Social High High High High
Function
Behavioural sensory High High High High
comfort High(M) High Low High
Low (F)
Personal Low Moderate Low High
space (peak time)
high(non
peak time)
Table 11: comparative analysis

4.2 DISCUSSIONS

Time spent by users and comfort required is directly related :

When a user spends more time at a place, they naturally require both physical and
psychological comfort to facilitate their activity there. In the typologies chosen, it was
observed that the tea kadai experienced users flowing in and out of the space at a very
fast pace (5-15 minutes). Hence comfort provided in terms of physical objects was
non-existent. The cafe saw users spend between 15-30 minutes (approximately) and
hence required to provide basic comforts like a few chairs and small tables .The mess
hosts customers that spend nearly an hour at the restaurant . Hence, maximum comfort
in terms of large tables, chairs, fans and wash basin are provided.

46
Personal space is a variable factor:
Personal space is often not seen to be a rigid requirement by the customers during peak
hours when there is an overflow of people into the establishments. Customers are
comfortable and ready to share their space and comforts with strangers when there is a
shortage of resources to accommodate everyone separately.
On the other hand , During non- peak hours, it was observed that people were slightly
uncomfortable sharing their space with people who they did not intend on spending time
with. Users often sat or stood far apart from the other user given the option to do so.

Disparity in gender :
Gender diversity on the street is observed to be imbalanced. Majority of users of the
third place on the street were of the male gender. Where there is low personal space,
women found it uncomfortable or uninviting to be in that zone. Men created a territorial
zone at these places (tea kadai & biryani shop) making it almost unacceptable for a
person of the opposite gender to mix in.

A Third Place is subjective :

A third place is a third place only to the users who identify the place as their third place.
A third place for one may not be a third place for someone else. For someone the cafe
could be a third place but not the biryani shop and vice versa.

47
 CONCLUSION:

4.3 This study was a quest to discover the qualities that differentiate a third place
business from other businesses. A third place has many social qualities that are defined
by ray oldenburg but less is known on the architectural qualities that make a place a
third place .

The paper investigates the qualities in terms of architectural parameters and draws a
conclusion that both morphological and behavioural aspects of architecture has a large
influence on creating a third place . A place is a space , and any space in architecture is
important. The measurable or tangible architecture parameters such as parking, Comfort
and counters are factors that affect the quality of experience of the users affecting place
making. The intangible- behavioural aspects are aspects that are highly interesting
because understanding humans and human needs are the most important requirements
of an architect or designer to design functional and user friendly spaces.

This research has the potential to further explore how public spaces, streets in this case
can be used as an important element in architecture and urban planning to facilitate
building a strong relationship between humans and built spaces.

48
 REFERENCES

1. The Great Good Place ( Oldenburg , 1999)

2. Life Between Buildings (Gehl, 1971)
3. Creating Architectural Theory ( Jon Lang, 1987)
4. https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Oldenburgs-1999-eight-characteristics-of
-third-places_tbl1_227515447
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Third_place
6. Mehta, Vikas & Bosson, Jennifer. (2010). Third Places and the Social Life of
Streets. Environment and Behaviour 2010.
7. Love Labour Lost,Shoonya Kumar,How a Pottie Kadai reveals more about the
identity of a city than large grand plans, 2020
8. Yulia Nurliani Lukito and Anneli Puspita Xenia 2017

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