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  • Essay / Defensible space and its four elements - 686

    Defensible space was first presented as a “model for residential environments”. The idea was "to inhibit crime by creating the physical expression of a self-defending social fabric" (Newman, 1972: 3), which "could arguably be achieved through the manipulation of architectural elements and design” (Newman, 1972; Coaffee, 2003: 18). The model has four physical design elements that contribute to the creation of secure environments: territoriality, natural surveillance, image and environment. Newman states that territoriality is “the capacity of the physical environment to create perceived zones of territorial influences” (1972: 51). Thus, through the use of real or symbolic barriers, the built environment should be subdivided into clearly distinct zones, from the most private to the most public (Colquhoun, 2004; Newman, 1972; Tijerino, 1998). Surveillance of a defensible area refers to “the ability of the physical design to provide surveillance opportunities for residents and their agents” (Newman, 1972: 78). This idea shows that the design of public spaces and semi-private spaces must allow “the watchful eye of the public” to always be there (Tijerino, 1998: 325). To put this idea into practice, public areas of a building should be visible from street level, so that anything out of the ordinary can be spotted by passers-by. It is also recommended that common areas of the building be visible from private areas. “The ability of design to influence perceptions of the uniqueness, isolation, and stigmatization of a project” is what influences a design's vulnerability to crime, according to Newman (1972: 103). According to his theory, it is recommended to avoid building shapes, layouts and materials that protrude or pose a threat to the paper. This analysis demonstrates that the characteristics of the built environment play a major role in inducing citizens' feelings of security in the face of the terrorist threat. Conclusion Pakistani citizens have chosen to be part of a democratic government that prioritizes the security of its citizens. Lahore has been “the traditional capital of Punjab for a thousand years” and, as a cultural center, has acted as a magnet for artists, artisans and performers. Lahore opposed the oppression of religious fanaticism and was compared to London for being the center of educational institutions, liberal arts and literature. But today, the city's vigor is gradually fading. It has therefore become increasingly important for planners to fight to reclaim the public domain and protect the future from the negative impacts of combating an insider threat..