All In! Designing Inclusive Meeting Spaces
Typ
Examensarbete för masterexamen
Program
Architecture and planning beyond sustainability, MSc
Publicerad
2020
Författare
Estvall, Camilla
Seidenfus, Marie
Modellbyggare
Tidskriftstitel
ISSN
Volymtitel
Utgivare
Sammanfattning
The current urban development in Gothenburg prioritises the
needs and aesthetics of middle- and upper-class inhabitants
(Thörn & Holgersson 2016, p.670, 681). This choice creates
a city that excludes a big part of the population and denies
them access to both housing and public spaces. Systematic
gentrification and segregation lead on to ghettoisation and
rising polarisation. A vicious circle starts that increases racism
and conflicts in the society.
The research hypothesis is that cultural differences and
friction can be mitigated through inclusive meeting spaces
that encourage interaction and cultural exchange.
The thesis is an investigation about the development processes,
design and impact of inclusive meeting spaces. The research is
based on qualitative research methods such as interviews, site
visits and literature studies. Urban theories, knowledge from
practices and reference projects are combined into a design
toolbox. Placemaking and Commoning are discussed as two
possible approaches to achieve inclusive spaces. These ideas
and the toolbox are illustrated on two sites in Brämaregården,
Gothenburg.
The main take-out of the research is that inclusive meeting
spaces require both inclusive design elements and an inclusive
process. Basic conditions for functional spaces are that
they are safe, accessible and provide a reason to go there.
Inclusive meeting spaces that include design elements that
are appealing for diverse cultures and promote interaction
are the foundation for cultural exchange. The more people
are included in the development process, the more likely they
develop a sense of ownership and feel like they belong to the
space. Placemaking is a tool to create inclusive public spaces;
however, the initiator uses the community to get input but
does not share the responsibility. Commoning is hard to kickstart,
but the approach stands for equal power distribution
and is an alternative to the current state of urban planning.
Developing inclusive meeting spaces is an essential part of
achieving an inclusive city.
Beskrivning
Ämne/nyckelord
common space, public space, meeting space, social sustainability, inclusive design