One day, a couple of years ago, while waiting for my bus to college, I witnessed a heartwarming scene. An elderly woman was setting up a few dog houses in the square. It was winter in Brazil, and as the street dogs approached her, I could tell they knew her. They wagged their tails happily, quickly taking shelter in the newly placed houses and sharing the warmth. Finally, the dogs had a cozy place, which was crucial during the chilly nights.
Intrigued by her kindness, I approached the woman and started a conversation. She was dedicated to caring for the street dogs in the neighborhood. Inspired, I offered to help, and she happily accepted.
The next day, I visited her home, which was conveniently located near mine. She warmly welcomed me inside, showcasing not only her humble home but also her crafting skills. Instantly, we bonded over our shared love for crafting. Together, we constructed more dog houses, planning to place them in another square. Sadly, our efforts were thwarted when the city authorities intervened.After that we stopped seeing each other.
Years have passed, and I moved to Amsterdam, and resided in diverse neighbourhoods. I had an elderly Dutch neighbor who didn’t speak English, and I didn’t know Dutch at the time, but somehow we got along well. She showed me her home and even invited me to attend her church’s singing on Sundays. It reminded me of the lady I met back in Brazil.
You might be wondering why I’m telling you this, right?
Somehow we all crave a sense of belonging, whether we admit it or not. It makes us happy and at home, no matter where we are. Those community connections make us feel part of something. But that belonging isn’t limited to social ties.
This leads me to the question: How can urban planners empower communities to cultivate inclusivity and a sense of belonging?
The luxurious buildings often convey an air of exclusivity, subtly indicating who belongs and who doesn’t. Some public spaces, while theoretically open to all, frequently cater to the affluent, sending implicit messages about social status and privilege. The opulence and grandeur of such structures can inadvertently make others feel inferior or unwelcome, reinforcing societal divisions.
Architecture has a strong influence on our emotions and sense of belonging. When we walk through grand, luxurious buildings, both public and private, we can experience a range of feelings. Unfortunately, instead of feeling uplifted, people may sometimes feel inadequate or excluded.
For centuries, architecture has conveyed implicit messages. Majestic palaces, grand cathedrals, imposing government buildings, and opulent mansions, all carefully designed, leave an impression on us and evoke emotions. Whether it’s the towering skyscrapers of modern cities or the ancient ruins of past civilizations, every architectural structure tells a story and shapes our perceptions of the world.
Luxurious buildings often give an air of exclusivity, subtly suggesting who belongs and who doesn’t. These spaces, which may seem open to all in theory, frequently cater to the wealthy, sending implicit messages about social status and privilege.
The grandeur of such structures can make some people feel out of place or unwelcome, widening the gaps in society. This contrast highlights the disconnection between those who build these monuments and probably will never step a foot on those same builds after been built and those who actually use them, further increasing feelings of exclusion among certain groups.
However, it’s important to understand that the opposite can also be true. Buildings can be welcoming and inclusive, sending warm invitations to all who see them.
Well-designed public spaces, with inviting architecture and accessible features, can create a sense of community and belonging.
Involving residents in shaping their city is crucial. This gives them a voice in the decision-making process and helps them feel ownership and pride in their community.
Creating communal spaces like parks, playgrounds, and cultural hubs through placemaking brings people together. These spaces foster connections and strengthen social bonds within the community.
It’s vital to promote diversity, inclusivity, and mutual respect in placemaking projects. Everyone should feel valued and heard, which creates an environment conducive to growth and opportunity.
Incorporating placemaking principles into urban development can build vibrant and inclusive communities where people not only have stable housing but also thrive in a supportive environment.
Hosting multicultural festivals and events celebrates the diverse population of the community. These events showcase the rich traditions, languages, and cuisines represented in the neighbourhood, promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
Shared community facilities like centers, libraries, and recreation spaces provide residents with essential services and places to gather. These facilities allow people to participate in activities, attend workshops, and get involved in community programs.
The emotional impact of architecture goes beyond just looks. It shapes how we see ourselves and others, and how we interact with our surroundings. By designing buildings and spaces to be inclusive and accessible, we can create environments that embrace diversity and make everyone feel valued.
Author: Letícia Figuerôa Braga