From Intent to Action: Fostering sustainable behaviours in vulnerable neighbourhoods through public space design.

The world is changing, and the impact of climate change is becoming increasingly apparent. in our daily lives. The need for people to change their unsustainable behaviours is clear, particularly in vulnerable neighbourhoods where the effects of climate change are most pronounced. Not only are environmental vulnerabilities being exposed within this context, but social vulnerabilities as well. That’s where this project comes in. The aim is to take an eco-social approach to urban design, creating purposeful and sustainable interactions within these neighbourhoods to help achieve a more inclusive and sustainable future. The influential role that the physical environment plays in shaping our behaviours needs to be recognised. It can either facilitate or dismiss specific actions, particularly in relation to sustainable behaviours. Encouraging sustainable behaviours in public spaces requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses community awareness, everyday decisions, and recovery and protection behaviours. To effectively promote environmental actions, it’s crucial to tailor interventions to the needs and capabilities of the local population, considering factors such as affordability, feelings of safety, and cultural backgrounds. With this in mind, the project proposes design interventions that gathered in a pattern language. By considering local capabilities and sustainability behaviours, design propositions are made for four places within Bloemhof and Tarwewijk - each representing a different approach in terms of scale and functionality. The final designs represent a future in which a strong community practices sharing and repairing within a balanced and natural streetscape.Architecture, Urbanism and Building Sciences | Urbanis