An alternative spatial reflex to the global nomadic lifestyle experience: Escapecore

Purpose This study aims to analyze global nomadism, transformed by the deepening crises of the Anthropocene, as a contemporary spatial reflex and to propose the conceptual model of “Escapecore,” which redefines belonging through movement, adaptability and self-centeredness in a context where fixed geographies lose their validity. Design/methodology/approach The study adopts a qualitative, holistic and visual–analytical approach to interpret spatial crises in the Anthropocene and to formulate “Escapecore” as an alternative spatial reflex to global nomadic lifestyles. The method involves concept coding, thematic clustering into a layered flow from the Anthropocene to Escapecore, and visual–spatial mapping through diagrams expressing its ontological coordinates. Validity is grounded in the coherence and contextual adaptability of the conceptual network. Findings Spatial crises in the Anthropocene trigger individual housing reflexes, with “Escapecore” emerging as an alternative spatial behavior amid the collapse of permanence and the redefinition of belonging. Visual and conceptual analyses show a tendency to construct temporary yet meaningful places across digital and physical realms, indicating that nomadism has evolved into a form of existence based not only on mobility but also on emotional and cognitive flexibility. Originality/value The article proposes a conceptual model that rethinks individual existence and spatial belonging in the Anthropocene through “Escapecore.” By linking Anthropocene-driven crises to new practices of movement-based belonging, the study opens a pathway for future design research and spatial prototyping grounded in resilience and multi-scalar adaptability.