Open space principles : their application on the campus of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Provision of pleasant outdoor open spaces in university campuses such as plazas, courtyards, and green spaces helps create enjoyable atmosphere for human interactions and encourages students to engage in social activities.

The present study was designed to determine how selected outdoor open spaces on The University of Tennessee, Knoxville campus area function based on the principles of open space design and development.

An unobtrusive method of investigating and recording the existing physical elements and conditions of the selected open spaces was used in this survey. The analysis of the data indicated the strengths and weaknesses of each outdoor open space.

Overall, the survey revealed that the physical elements of the open spaces in the Clement Hall/Strong Hall and the Presidential courtyard function well in terms of the principles of open space design and development. On the other hand, Clarence Brown Theater's open space. University Center Plaza, and the open space on The Hill are less functional and comparatively unattractive. The design of these open spaces are not in agreement with the principles of open space design studied in relevant literature.