Old Town promotes social interaction through its design. Its small size force visitors to be in close proximity with each other. There are no divisions or walls within the interior. The bar dominates the restaurant, forming a long L-shape that is the longest surface in the space. Opposite the bar is another small bar against the wall. In the center is a long rectangular table with a raised portion in the center. The tables and bars provide the potential for strangers to sit next to one another and engage in conversation. Those sitting across form each other at the table are also likely to converse. The depth of the long table is less than normal, causing the two people opposite each other to be closer to one another than they normally would. Tables are close together and stools are moveable to encourage interaction.
The acoustics within the draught house should also be considered. During busy times, the sound bounces off the hard surfaces and makes the room loud. People in conversation are forced to move closer together. They are more likely to hold longer conversations because of their proximity, rather than having a short conversation across the room.
The outside patio is another method of bringing people together. The small patio forces tables to be close together. Although it seems a bit overcrowded, visitors do not mind. When the weather is warm, it is common to see people from different tables conversing and interacting with one another. The boundary of the patio meets the sidewalk, allowing passersby to connect with diners. Its location on the main thoroughfare through campus makes it privy to heavy foot traffic, making Old Town an easily recognizable icon at UNCG.
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