Elements of Community at Henry's Coffee House in Lawrence, Kansas

There are many elements that help shape a community. These elements can be observed with a meticulous analysis of the actions of the community members. In this essay, the various components of a community at a coffee house called Henry’s will be analyzed. Communities involve territory, interaction amongst members, and how the members utilize their space. The community at Henry’s exhibits these same characteristics within its smaller sub-communities and the community as a whole.

Before a major analysis can begin, the atmosphere and general layout of Henry’s must be described. The room itself is not a large one; it is big enough to comfortably hold about 20 people. However, there are generally more people in the room on Friday and Saturday evenings. The employees’ area occupies nearly one third of the room and causes the customers’ area to appear in a u-shape. Behind the employees’ area and farthest from the door is a secluded area that has two tables and a small bar. On the opposite end is an area near the windows that is still somewhat secluded but is more noticeable. Directly in front of the door is the area I will refer to as the “common area”. This area is the largest, most noticeable, and contains more places to sit—these will all become important later on in the essay. The room is arranged in such a way that individuals and groups can choose to be secluded in a corner or in the common area where they can witness the various activities occurring within Henry’s.