There is a growing consensus that recognizes the impact of the built environment on creating thriving communities, especially when societies face significant societal challenges, including increased population density and diversity. This raises important questions about how architecture and communities can play a role in improving people's lives, and the intrinsic social value of good architectural design. A social values framework was used to explore a unique Australian case study: City U in the City of Adelaide, an extremely mixed-use high-rise building offering retirement living, disability accommodation, services for some of the most vulnerable in the community, commercial tenants, cafes/retail outlets, and corporate conference facilities.
The role of the three public spaces in the city of U in fostering positive emotions and a sense of belonging among different groups of residents, workers, and general users. Qualitative data is collected from regular focus groups, surveys, observations, and innovative resident audits. The focus here is on the results showing that public space in U-Cities is key to promoting 'community' – expressions are dynamic, developmental, and inclusive – and successful communities are actors that support participation and are the provision and design of architectural spaces. Compiled by Chen Jiaoyun
What are the social outcomes of creating high-quality spaces for the "public good"?What are the social values of incorporating non-hierarchical, dynamic, and flexible public spaces into the design of tall buildings?What impact does it have on the attractiveness and function of buildings?This case study shows that the design and operation of public spaces can bring together diverse groups of users to interact, engage, express, and build community by providing opportunities. This study supports improved design/project briefs and provides new market opportunities for innovative, regenerative vertical urban villages, including flexible, engaging public spaces that enable communities to thrive. A more diverse community than traditional architecture, U-City demonstrates the versatility that can be incorporated into architectural design to create highly functional, multi-purpose, socially engaging, and highly valuable collective spaces.
