addressfacing

Addressfacing refers to the practice of designing and constructing buildings and urban spaces so that their primary entrances and facades are oriented towards public streets and pathways. This design principle aims to foster a sense of engagement and connection between private properties and the public realm. Buildings that face the street often have windows, doors, and architectural details that contribute to the visual interest and liveliness of the streetscape. This contrasts with designs where entrances might be hidden, internal to a complex, or oriented towards private courtyards or parking lots, thereby reducing their interaction with the surrounding community.

The concept of addressfacing is closely linked to urban design principles that prioritize walkability, pedestrian activity, and the creation of vibrant, human-scaled environments. When buildings present their "address" to the street, they contribute to a continuous and predictable urban fabric, making it easier for people to navigate and feel oriented. This orientation can also enhance safety and security by increasing "eyes on the street," a concept popularized by urban theorist Jane Jacobs, which suggests that the presence of people observing the street discourages crime. In essence, addressfacing is a design philosophy that encourages buildings to actively participate in and contribute to the life of the street.