Kajian Karakter Fisik dan Non-Fisik Ruang Publik di Kota Matsum Medan

Abstract

The success of a public space is closely related to its physical and non-physical characteristics. In the context of urban villages, public space is an important part of the environmental elements. Therefore, it is important to carry out research that examines and explores the physical and non-physical characteristics of public spaces in Kampung Kota (case study: Kota Matsum Medan). The research method is carried out in a mixed manner, namely qualitative and quantitative. Qualitatively, researchers collected and analyzed primary data through direct observation in the field and in-depth interviews with 10 key informants. The data that is processed quantitatively was obtained through distributing questionnaires to 100 respondents. All data that has been collected and analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively is presented descriptively. The results of the study show that the physical characteristics of public spaces in Kota Matsum, Medan have an influence on social interactions. In this urban village, alleys not only function as circulation/accessibility routes but also as community gathering spaces. Even though the public space in this environment is not physically comfortable, the community's high social ties and economic considerations encourage the formation of a comfortable feeling for gathering and socializing. In terms of spatial dimensions, the narrower the width of the alley, the higher the social power created in this urban village. Overall, it can be concluded that the research results show that the physical (type of space, accessibility, and space comfort) and non-physical (community activity and sociability) characteristics of public spaces in Kota Matsum, Medan, are similar to public spaces in other urban villages. The results of the research can be used as consideration for city planners to accommodate settlements that grow unplanned in the future.