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Description
This paper investigates how integrating domestic design principles into public urban spaces can foster more inclusive, socially connected, and livable cities. The concept of Urban Domesticity adapts elements of the private sphere—such as resting, caregiving, and leisure—into urban environments, addressing the lack of accessible amenities and promoting urban livability. Inspired by Team 10’s vision of cities as extensions of our houses, this approach reimagines plazas and public spaces as 'urban living rooms,' enhancing intercultural and intergenerational connections and transforming neglected areas into vibrant social hubs.
Building on principles of tactical urbanism and biophilic design, the study underscores the transformative potential of small-scale interventions that prioritize human needs and well-being, similar to Tokyo's public restrooms that offer not only cleanliness but also comfort, security, and dignity. These restrooms exemplify how urban design can extend beyond functionality to foster genuine human connections and respect, reflecting the broader goals of urban domesticity.
Through an interdisciplinary approach, this research integrates the concept of 'The Caring City,' where urban spaces are intentionally designed to enhance the quality of life, drawing parallels with Tokyo's approach to public amenities that seamlessly blend modernity with care. The inclusion of native greenery, adaptable urban furniture, and interactive installations transforms the urban landscape, making it not only more functional but also more nurturing and inclusive.
The goal of this paper is to propose a paradigm shift in urban design towards environments that are not only habitable but deeply reflective of human care and respect, advocating for cities that enrich the lives of their inhabitants and resonate with the principles of urban domesticity.
References
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| Keywords | Urban Domesticity, Inclusive Urban Design, Intergenerational Spaces, Urban Livability |
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