Outdoor plublic spaces will only be most alive if they can be occupied no matter what the weather conditions.

Provide shelter from rain.

Especially in warmer climates, provide shade from the sun. In particular, locate sources of shade so that some of the spots people will occupy are shaded from mid-day to the evening.

In colder climates, provide shelter from the wind.

In planning these feature to protect people from the elements, remember that an outdoor public space should remain an outdoor space, and should not be cut off from the elements, even when protecting people from the most extreme of the elements.

Remember also that different people will have different needs and wants. Some people will seek shade on a sunny day, while others will want to bask in the sun - ensure that there is enough variety to provide for both types of people.