A new instrument to identify spatial occupancy patterns

This paper explores the potential of systematic observational methodologies and field format instruments for the analysis of spatial appropriation processes. We present an observational instrument that facilitates the registration of a number of co-ocurrent variables related to different levels of responses (types of users, activities and environmental variables), which was used in an exploratory analysis of occupancy patterns in a public square in Barcelona. A sequential analysis revealed distinct patterns of use in different areas within the space, and at different moments during the day. These strategies offer important new opportunities to describe spatial occupancy patterns.