In the last blogposts I have established, that public spaces offer a great opportunity for design to combat loneliness. Concepts like Third Places provide and ideal starting point for designers to tackle the loneliness issue ans shape social networks.
Based on my current research I would say that designing against loneliness means designing for connection. But what is important when designing public spaces with the purpose of community building in mind? How do we design spaces to nurture connection? In the following I will take a closer look at design principles, guidelines and important aspects for spaces, installations and interactions and maybe even seemingly counterintuitive design approaches addressing the problem.
DESIGNING PLACES
Designing places to combat loneliness and foster connection requires thoughtful consideration of how we interact with our environment. Accessibility is the foundation, ensuring that spaces are inclusive, safe, and easy to navigate for everyone, such as parks, libraries, or pocket spaces (a micro space serving a function different to the room or area it’s located in) seamlessly integrated into neighborhoods. Creating spaces that feel welcoming also starts with comfort – designing environments that invite people to stay. Incorporating nature boosts mental health and also fosters sociability. Adding elements of activation, like strategically placed seating, amenities, and refreshments, brings energy and encourages interaction.
It’s also important to offer choice and flexibility. People have different needs – sometimes we crave stimulation, and other times we just want a quiet spot to rest. Spaces that adapt to these preferences are more likely to feel inclusive. Designing at a human scale (the proportion of space in relation to human dimension, eg. not making spaces too large or small) adds to this sense of comfort that naturally invite connection. A strong sense of place is equally essential. Spaces that reflect local culture and shared values signal belonging and create identity. Purposeful programming (placemaking), or giving a space a specific focus – like catering to a particular group with shared needs or interests – can lower barriers to connection. For example, a park designed with community gardening in mind brings people together over a shared activity, making it easier to strike up conversations and build connections [1,2,4]. The project “the loneliness lab” uses a metaphor to define the essential elements of place making. The physical environment is considered the „hardware“ (buildings, parks), the programming of these spaces is the „software“ (activities, events, services) and the policies and standards that bring people together and prevent loneliness are the „code“ [3].
Thoughtful integration of technology can also enhance these spaces, make them more accessible and extend the sense of community beyond the physical world. But technology should always support the space, not take over, and it needs to be used carefully so it doesn’t get in the way of the real human connections these spaces are meant to create. [2]
In practice this means understanding the unique needs of a community. Conducting a needs assessment helps identify gaps in existing spaces and uncovers the types of activities people value most. Collaboration is equally vital – partnering with local businesses, organizations, and community groups builds a support network that strengthens the foundation of these spaces. Securing funding through grants, sponsorships, and partnerships ensures their creation and long-term sustainability [2].
Third places are more than just physical spaces, they play a crucial role in reducing social isolation by encouraging meaningful connections and interactions. They also act as places for civic engagement, giving people opportunities to participate in and contribute to their communities. Beyond this, third places support well-being by providing spaces where people can relax, connect with others, and share experiences. They promote a sense of belonging, strengthen social bonds, and cultivate vibrant, inclusive communities [2].
SUCCESSFUL EXAMPLES
“Gathering place” in Tulsa is a concept of a park that offers a diverse amount of activities from learning and education to events and culinary experiences: „Gathering Place aims to serve as a cornerstone for our vibrant community while improving social, economic, and environmental sustainability in Tulsa.“
https://www.gatheringplace.org/
“The High Line” in New York used to be an old elevated abandoned railroad track and was transformed into a park and community space in the middle of the city. Ideas for dEsigns were created through contests by anyone who wanted to participate and much of it is therefore created by public participation. Most of it is supported by funding and it offers many activities from food, art, performance and nature: „The High Line is both a nonprofit organization and a public park on the West Side of Manhattan. Through our work with communities on and off the High Line, we’re devoted to reimagining the role public spaces have in creating connected, healthy neighborhoods and cities.“
https://www.thehighline.org/
The implications for interaction design projects could be developing design guidelines, such as workshops or a framework, to guide the creation of third spaces for urban planners, architects, community leaders or involved citizens. Another approach could be to create a platform that fosters the development of communities dedicated to designing third places tailored to their needs, thereby encouraging active citizen participation in urban planning.
Sources
- HKS Architects, “Healing Loneliness: Six Ways to design for Social Connection and Community | HKS Architects,” HKS Architects, Jun. 24, 2024. https://www.hksinc.com/our-news/articles/healing-loneliness-six-ways-to-design-for-social-connection-and-community/
- M. Abdelhamid, “Third place theory: creating community spaces,” Urban Design lab, Oct. 20, 2024. https://urbandesignlab.in/third-place-theory-creating-community-spaces/
- “Knowledge on Loneliness — The Loneliness Lab | Loneliness in urban spaces,” The Loneliness Lab, Dec. 29, 2020. https://www.lonelinesslab.org/knowledge-hub
- “Eleven Principles for Creating Great Community Places.” https://www.pps.org/article/11steps
