5. The Relationship Between People and Place from the Perspective of People’s Experience

This chapter delves into the relationship between people and their environment in the context of eco-cities, with a particular focus on the evaluation of spatial quality and the significance of interview quotes. The study examines how public spaces facilitate both flows (movement and activities) and fixity (comfort and sense of place), striking a balance that fosters place attachment in an increasingly mobile world. The research is grounded in the notion that the interactive relationship between the physical environment and people’s social well-being is of great significance. Through observational analysis and interview excerpts, the study suggests that people develop a behavioural connection with the environment, reflecting their attitudes towards the place. The chapter also explores the reasons for choosing specific research sites within the Sino-Singapore Tianjin Eco-City (SSTEC) and evaluates the spatial quality of each location. The findings highlight the importance of safety and social infrastructure in creating people-centred spatial environments. The study concludes by discussing how the people-place interactive relationship can be introduced or supported in Chinese eco-city planning practices, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach that considers both micro-scale interactions and macro-scale planning strategies.