A Study on the Spatial Characteristics of Effective Open Spaces and the Actual Operation of the System Prior to the Standardization of the Specified Block System :

This study analyzes cases designated by city planning decisions up to the 1970s, before the standardization of the Specified Block System (Tokutei-gaiku), to examine the spatial characteristics of Effective Open Space (yūkō-kūchi), the functions expected of it, and how they were evaluated. Diverse spaces—plazas, sidewalks, pilotis, sunken gardens, rooftops, indoor through-passages, bridges and voids—were often treated as Effective Open Space. Diagrams suggest inconsistent links between spatial characteristics and category names, with evaluation multipliers ranging from 0.25 to 2.0. Some documents envisioned cross-block pedestrian networks, but these have not become institutional objectives or realized outcomes.