PublicBit
In collaboration with Empire and Columbia University, GSAPP
PublicBit is a mobile, open hardware unit developed for deployment in public spaces with sensing capabilities that are networked for real time transmission of city specific data. The data is synthesized to develop spatial proposals for linking physical and virtual public spaces, both in and between cities. An online platform simultaneously aggregates and broadcasts the data, providing a global platform for exchange. PublicBit forms an adaptive infrastructure in cities, emerging, networking, and responding in unprecedented ways through citizen engagement.
PublicBit was developed for use in the Public Space Workshop 5. The Public Space Workshop is an intensive three-week rapid exchange in search of emergent issues concerning contemporary public space. Students and faculty from participating universities collaborate at nodes within GSAPP’s Studio-X Global Network to investigate design issues, expanding their understanding through a diverse array of feedback. The cities are active testing grounds for research and experimentation within the built environment.