Research highlights 1) This paper explores the social background, living space, and community forms of Tuen Mun, Hong Kong, and examines how public spaces can support a vibrant, diverse, and interconnected community. 2) Using a waterfront and street space as case study sites, field observation studies were done to analyse the use of different types of public space by different people, and the relationships between people's behavioural preferences and spatial diversity. 3) Based on the research, the paper summarizes the key qualities and attributes of public space that can support diverse communities, including spaces for daily life, sociality, affordability, heterogeneity and management.