Co-Creating Inclusive Public Spaces: Engaging Underrepresented and Marginalized Communities in the Planning Process

Lovrić, Marina (2023) Co-Creating Inclusive Public Spaces: Engaging Underrepresented and Marginalized Communities in the Planning Process. LET IT GROW, LET US PLAN, LET IT GROW. Nature-based Solutions for Sustainable Resilient Smart Green and Blue Cities. Proceedings of REAL CORP 2023, 28th International Conference on Urban Development, Regional Planning and Information Society. pp. 115-124. ISSN 2521-3938

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Abstract

Demographic data show that life expectancy is increasing, due to medical developments, higher living standards, healthier diets, etc. But longer life expectancy also means a higher proportion of the elderly population with various functional handicaps. The concept of functionally disabled people is broad and can include persons with disabilities, the elderly, pregnant women, young children and anyone who is permanently or temporarily handicapped in some way. This paper reviews the academic research in the field of architecture in relation to the accessibility of public spaces for persons with disabilities, with a focus on co-creation and community engagement. For all people, independent movement and mobility are essential. A requirement for ensuring the independent movement of persons with disabilities and their integration into society is the physical accessibility of urban areas and buildings. The technical foundations for accessibility design have been established by universal design's principles and guidelines, but they still require aesthetic value to be added. Allowing disabled people access to public spaces increases their visibility, which strengthens their sense of independence and autonomy and promotes a more positive perception of society. Persons with disabilities are less stigmatized as a result of their inclusion in society, and the general public and professionals are more aware of the need to modify environments and services so that everyone can use them. Inclusion of persons with disabilities in society leads to destigmatization and increased awareness among professionals and the general public about the importance of adapting the environment and services so that all users can use them on equal terms. However, more than technical solutions are required to achieve accessibility and inclusion. Co-creation and community involvement are essential components of creating accessible and inclusive public places. Co- creation is a design approach that involves end users and designers working together to jointly develop solutions that are tailored to their needs (Prahalad & Ramaswamy, 2004). Community participation means actively integrating people of the community in the design and planning processes, particularly those who are underrepresented or marginalized, to ensure that their viewpoints are taken into consideration. Architects frequently associate disability with accessibility and compliance with spatial legislation, but they overlook the social aspect of disability and the added value it can bring. Individuals with sensory and physical limitations view spaces differently, giving them a distinct perspective on and experience with the built world. By incorporating underrepresented and marginalized people in the design process, architects can acquire a more diversified perspective on accessibility and inclusivity, leading to more effective and meaningful design solutions. This paper proceeds by saying that community involvement and co-creation are critical for developing inclusive and accessible public spaces. To accomplish accessibility and inclusion, more than simply technological improvements are required; a societal and cultural shift in favour of respecting diversity and strengthening underrepresented and marginalised people is also required. Involving persons with disabilities in the design and planning process may result in a more inclusive and equitable society.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	built environment, inclusion, urban space, disabled people, accessibility
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor H Social Sciences > HN Social history and conditions. Social problems. Social reform H Social Sciences > HT Communities. Classes. Races
Depositing User:	REAL CORP Administrator
Date Deposited:	02 Oct 2023 21:13
Last Modified:	04 Oct 2023 17:42
URI:	http://repository.corp.at/id/eprint/999

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