WHEN WE MEET : COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT IN MOTION

In a time of increasing polarization, conflicts, and spatial inequality, working towards a socially sustainable society is crucial to overcome existing and future challenges. This thesis explores how architectural design can foster inclusivity, community well-being, and the generation of social capital by creating spaces for encounters and fostering community engagement. With Umeå, Sweden, as the local context, the study critically analyzes municipal strategies for social sustainability and investigates the relationship between the physical environment and social processes. Drawing from theories of social capital, spatial justice, and participatory urbanism, the research highlights the importance of accessible, non-commercial meeting spaces and community engagement. The project consists of two key spatial explorations: the Community Wagon, a mobile architectural artifact for social engagement and dialogue, and The Hub, a movable structure designed to activate local neighborhoods and act as a catalyst for community engagement. Both interventions are grounded in the belief that inclusive urban development must be co-created, locally responsive, and engaging the community. By combining theory, policy analysis, field experiments, and speculative design, this thesis argues that architectural practice can, and must, support democratic, equitable, and socially generative spaces within the urban environment.