Start with the Petunias: Lighter, Quicker, Cheaper: The complexity of public spaces is such that you cannot expect to do everything right initially. The best spaces experiment with short-term improvements that can be tested and refined over many years! Elements, such as seating, outdoor cafes, public art, striping of crosswalks and pedestrian havens, community gardens, and murals, are examples of improvements that can be accomplished in a short time.