Social paths are generally defined as being paths people take that are not paved or deliberately laid out as movement corridors. However, near Rapson Hall, there is a path, paved with pavers, that is absolutely a social path. It is located near the west entrance to the atrium. When there is no snow, it becomes clear that this path is more for aesthetic reasons that for actual circulation. To the left of the path, there is a similar path leading to another entrance to the atrium. Nobody uses this path, despite it being paved. What makes the social path so used is a mindset. Only group in particular uses this route into Rapson Hall, those of us who live there. Your first time entering Rapson, chances are you will not use this path. It is sloped, slightly uneven, and slippery during winter. However, when you are an architecture or landscape design student, chances are you will use this path when entering the building. It is the quickest way in, and we cannot afford to waste any of our valuable studio time. Also, it is somewhat of a status symbol. Trekking this path shows to others on the street that you belong, that you are a CDes student and proud of it.
This path as social is evident in the winter because this walkway is never plowed. But as the photo shows, it is not only trampled down, but completely clear due to the high number of arch and LA students dragging their feet into Rapson 24/7. The social use of this pathway take it from a landscape feature to a social path.
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