Game Boards FTW

Hear me out, m'kay? I was reflecting on my day yesterday and almost posted some fodder for an upcoming daily-ish email. But my topics were not well represented in existing forums... great discussions that could use a nudge.

The biggest topic invading my brain was game tables in public spaces. They just ooze community and shared space. I'm specifically talking about chess/checker tables. Big, heavy ones that can't decide to abscond in the middle of the night.

As long as they're there, they are a constant reminder that community  could be happening. They don't have to be located in a waterside park in some urban core. In an effort to build community here in my hometown, I am seriously thinking about experimenting with some designs, getting permission to install one or two, and see what happens.

But help a feller out, won't you? What do you think of my idea? Who knows how to build these? Where would be the best placement so that people might actually use them?

j

I think it's a great idea! It looks like there are a few examples in Europe, like these giant chess sets in a park in Geneva, Switzerland.



It would want to be where people are likely to gather naturally, like a public park or plaza. With seating areas for spectators and possibly close to shelter and refreshments.

Yes! That's the sneaky part. You can't put them out in Timbuktu, but they might still be neglected if they aren't in a strategic area, either.

They have to be in a comfortable, accessible place that is close to amenities. Somewhere there is a lot of foot traffic. Somewhere you can get a latté or a street taco and not feel stupid for bringing a bag of chess pieces or checkers...

Jim

Nancy Reading wrote:I think it's a great idea! It looks like there are a few examples in Europe, like these giant chess sets in a park in Geneva, Switzerland.

(source)

It would want to be where people are likely to gather naturally, like a public park or plaza. With seating areas for spectators and possibly close to shelter and refreshments.