Distance alone does not explain whether a route feels walkable. Sun exposure, crossings, places to pause and the clarity of the path all affect the decision to walk.
Design the whole route
Trace the journey from door to destination and mark where shade disappears. A comfortable stretch followed by an exposed crossing may still discourage walking. Trees, arcades and building edges should form a connected sequence.
Make pauses useful
Seats are most valuable where people naturally wait: beside entrances, at crossings and near shared facilities. Provide shade and sightlines together so a resting place also feels safe and easy to find.
Check different times
A route that works in the morning may be exposed later. Review sun paths and seasonal use, then test the design on site. The goal is a reliable everyday network rather than a photogenic single moment.
