Regenerating the Urban Void: Design Strategies for Sustainable & Inclusive Communities

Central to architectural endeavors is the aspiration to cultivate spaces that not only evoke creativity and joy but also provoke community engagement. However, amidst careful design lies a stark reality - spaces neglected, misused, underused, or simply wasted (Hwang & Lee, 2018). In the face of the impending climate crisis, the demand for livable and sustainable cities has never been greater, and within this context emerges the concept of urban voids, holding promise for transformation. This thesis delves into the typology of urban voids, dissecting their current uses and misuses, and advocates for the imperative to reclaim these overlooked spaces. This research identifies and applies existing literature to advance strategies for fostering regenerative architecture that harmonizes with natural ecosystems. A paradigm shift is pivotal: to perceive neglected urban spaces not as liabilities but as prospects (Hwang & Lee, 2018). Through a design research methodology, this thesis proposes the potential of regenerative architecture to transform urban voids into dynamic, purposeful, and accessible public domains, thereby enriching the well-being of both humans and the environment.