Bridging Safety, Security and the Community

Abstract

Security and the gradually growing need for a feeling of safety is nothing that cannot be traced throughout history, however it seems that traditional and modern systems have been achieved through the implementation of security systems. It is inevitable that upon entering a public space, public building, or even private sectors that one is drawn to notice the clutter that these modern forms of surveillance and safety measures have created. If we look at the way security has been addressed into the built environment, it seems that there may be a disconnect between what has been achieved and what an appropriate solution could be. Surveillance cameras, alarm systems, and so forth have been used to give the occupant whether permanent or temporary a somewhat “false” sense of security. Especially following the events of 9-11, more and more emphasis has been placed on security methods and protecting our nation and people, however it seems that a more proactive approach to solving some of the rising security issues and flaws can be implemented into the design process in the early stages. How can architecture and aesthetic design bridge the gap that has been created through modern forms of security systems? Crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) is a modern day concept that has taken the approach of doing just that in a particular manner. In theory the idea of preventing and deterring crime through the design process is a good approach to solving some problems created with modern day security systems, but it seems that there needs to still be some revisions to the method. For example, one popular way CPTED has been practiced is through creating gated communities for residents. Although this is a step in the right direction, as we may be eliminating or reducing the number of alarm systems and surveillance cameras, this somewhat cautious approach is not an end all solution to the issue. Is the solution for the issue raised merely a tactic that attempts to segregate a portion or portions of a community so that the feeling of security is present? Through the investigations and research this thesis will attempt to build off of the ideas created through CPTED methods and improve the way we as users of the built environment achieve our sense of security. So again the question is raised. How can architecture and aesthetic design bridge the gap that has been created through modern forms of security systems? How can modern principles of security be re-defined and enhanced to define the built environment for specific user groups within a community in a way that bridges security and safety, and the surrounding environment?