The Provision of a Decent, Pleasant and Humane Environment: remarks on the un-remarkable public spaces of Kendall Square is a video about the unquestionably political yet comically impractical design and location of many of Kendall Square's public spaces. Of course, Kendall Square and Cambridge are not alone in this state of affairs–cities often end up stashing al fresco spaces in undesirable, even un-findable places. As the post-industrial landscapes around South Boston transform into one of the next desirable locations for tech and "innovation" economies, it is worth considering the future of its public spaces. Will Boston’s Innovation District mimic the unconsidered, often sterile public realm of Kendall Square, or will “America’s Walking City” live up to its appellation?

 

Stephanie Rabins is a Filmmaker/Photographer, Teacher, and Post-Production Producer. Her work focuses on public systems, public space and making social questions meaningful through lyrical documentation. 

Lou Thomas is an MIT Urban Studies & Planning PhD Candidate and Filmmaker. Lou works on projects around high-density urban parenting, public space, and equity. Lou and Stephanie grew up together in Baltimore and have both found themselves here in MA, leading to collaborations including this one for the Illuminus Festival.