Longing for Belonging
REDISCOVERING COMMUNITY THROUGH THIRD PLACES
PRERNA SHARMA
Longing for Belonging
REDISCOVERING COMMUNITY THROUGH THIRD PLACES
PRERNA SHARMA
Today, if we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.
Mother Teresa
Introduction
In today’s fast-paced, modern, urban world amidst the chaos of daily routines and an ever-growing digital existence, there exists a yearning- a longing for connection and a sense of belonging. It is a yearning that is innate to us as human beings, rooted in the essence of our survival as a species- yet we are still lonely. A global survey was fielded as part of Gallup’s annual World Poll survey administration and the results show that about a quarter of the world has reported feeling very or fairly lonely.
A simple Google search about third places gives you this result: “Third Places” is a term coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg and refers to places where people spend time between home (‘first’ place) and work (‘second’ place).” However, Third Places are much more than just physical locations. They are spaces where we exchange ideas, have a good time, and build relationships- where we interact with each other and where communities thrive. They are locations where we can simply be.
Third Places are essential to the fabric of our society and overall well-being, and some cultures are better at acknowledging this need for connection than others. After World War II, in America, government incentives encouraged people to move to the suburbs which, in turn, led to a high dependence on cars. However, this disconnect among community members exists in walkable cities as well.
The advent of COVID-19 led to the popularisation of the workfrom-home business model. This, combined with societal shifts and technological advancements has altered the essence of third spaces as they are now being geared towards productivity. Cafes once bustling with lively banter now echo with the solitary clicks of keyboards.
This transformation is not merely an aesthetic evolution, but a shift in the way we co-exist with one another. The decline of traditional third places has far-reaching implications, extending beyond mere inconvenience to the very heart of our social fabric. It is a decline marked by increasing feelings of isolation, disconnection, and alienation—a decline that threatens to erode the bonds that bind us together as a community.
In the face of this existential challenge, the need for innovation has never been more pressing.
My thesis, Longing For Belonging: Rediscovering Community Through Third Places, is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the enduring power of connection, and the transformative potential of design.
2 Research
Looking back at my thesis, I realize that my research process started much earlier than I had anticipated. In the early months of 2023 when I was thinking about what to pick as my thesis topic, I began to hear about Third Places. Unfortunately, at the time everything I heard about this term seemed to be negative.
The term “Third Places” really intrigued me. It’s a deceptively simple concept with a memorable name, and whenever I shared it with others, they quickly grasped its significance. A simple search about Third Places gives you this result: “Third Places” is a term coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg and refers to places where people spend time between home (‘first’ place) and work (‘second’ place). They are locations where we exchange ideas, have a good time, and build relationships.”
However, third places are much more than just that. They are essential to the fabric of our society and overall well-being. Ray Oldenburg published his book “The Great Good Place” in 1999. Most of the issues that he laid out in the book are still as relevant today as they were in the 80s and 90s. In their most true and honest form, third spaces are meant to be informal public gathering spaces where the community is able to come together to share ideas, laugh, and just be. They are local, inclusive, and accessible. Some of the earliest examples of third spaces include the post office, coffeehouses, bars, salons, and barber shops.
Research has shown that having a sense of place and belonging is detrimental to community building, mental health, cultural diversity, civic engagement, and social cohesion. A general advisory by the Surgeon General published in May 2023 states that:
“The physical health consequences of poor or insufficient connection include a 29% increased risk of heart disease, a 32% increased risk of stroke, and a 50% increased risk of developing dementia for older adults. Additionally, lacking social connection increases risk of premature death by more than 60%.”
The advisory also stated that “while the epidemic of loneliness and isolation is widespread and has profound consequences for our individual and collective health and well-being, there is a medicine hiding in plain sight: social connection.”
The declining quality of our first (home) and second (work) places due to the rise in work-from-home culture, has already been seen negatively impacting our societies in terms of social isolation, mental disorders and alienation, distrust, lack of civic engagement, and social disorganization.
Existing third spaces, such as cafes, now cater to productivity, disrupting their traditional role as informal gathering spots which also affects businesses in terms of their success and longevity.
During my research, a unanimous agreement emerged, emphasizing the crucial importance of these spaces across all demographics. As soon as I started to delve into the topic, two key points became clear:
1. There is a scarcity of these spaces.
2. The ones that do exist are being geared towards productivity.
With the decline of common meeting grounds, there is a risk of exacerbating human prejudices and widening divides among community members. Ray Oldenburg’s assertion that “public life is populated with strangers” highlights the need for a shift in awareness to influence behaviors, attitudes, and worldviews.
In this context, individuals in third places play a crucial role as Public Characters.
In her book The Death and Life of Great American Cities, Jane Jacobs defines a Public Character as “anyone who is in frequent contact with a wide circle of people and who is sufficiently interested to make himself a public character. A public character need have no special talents or wisdom to fulfill his functionalthough he often does. He just needs to be present, and there need to be enough of his counterparts. His main qualification is that he is public, that he talks to lots of different people.” Their mere presence and interaction contribute to public life, fostering connections among diverse individuals.
Reflecting on my own experiences, I’ve been fortunate to encounter Public Characters in my life—individuals who embody the essence of connecting with others in various settings.
The first one being my grandmother, my Nani. A five-foot-tall lady who can command a room like no other. She is revered and beloved by everyone in my family and the neighborhood. I have seen many people from all different backgrounds, come to her for guidance over the years. She is the token village elder.
My neighbor Santosh who would always hang out in the lobby of my old apartment building to talk to my doorman Gee. The two of them had been there for decades but they welcomed me into their discussions and the three of us formed an unlikely friendship during my lease there. They were exactly twice my age at the time and would give me sage advice about life, love, jobs, and landlords- and even help me with homework at times.
My bodega guy who told me I could pay for the pack of gum next time because he knew I would be back.
The bagel guys in my old neighborhood who always remembered my order and greeted me with the biggest smiles every time I walked into the store.
Anette, who remembers that I get a cappuccino with almond milk along with my sandwich. She worries if she hasn’t seen me in a long time and always waits till I arrive at the store to prepare the coffee so it stays hot, even though I order ahead online.
Caleb, a creative writing major looking for a fun side project and a way to make some extra money, brings his foldable desk and chair and sits in Maria Hernandez Park and sells words for donations. The first word is always free.
Miles, who operates a non-profit called “The Tea Stand” sets up a free tea stall at the park every other Sunday. He offers people a warm beverage, a welcoming space, and the opportunity to connect with their neighbors.
The old lady I see on my walk to the train who always sits at the stoop of her building smoking a cigarette.
The manager of the family-run grocery store on my block, who always smiles and says hi and sometimes gives me free fruit.
The aged security guard at the Constructed Environments building at my alma mater, who would tell me stories of his long-lost love from his youth and his ongoing PhD research.
The common factor among all these people is my consistent encounter with them in the same place- in their unassigned but designated third places.
Take Anette, for example; the coffee at that restaurant may not be the finest, but I keep returning not for the service they provide, but for the familiar face and the warmth and stability that she exudes.
Having familiar faces in my community, even if I don’t know all their names, instills in me a sense of peace, trust, and belonging that I hope everyone experiences.
My research has taken many different forms through this process. Initially, it took an exploratory route where I looked at different forms of media including books, articles, podcasts, videos, blog posts, interviews, etc to gain a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
Some pivotal books that significantly contributed to my knowledge include:
“The Great Good Place” by Ray Oldenburg
“The Death and Life of Great American Cities” by Jane Jacobs
“The Library Book” by Susan Orlean
“Walkable City: How Downtown Can Save America One Step at a Time” by Jeff Speck
Additionally, I conducted a series of interviews with subject matter experts hailing from diverse backgrounds, fields, and experiences.
These interviews involved conversations with government officials, designers, pastors, and other professionals who not only validated my research but also introduced me to new perspectives and realities that were previously unknown to me. Speaking with a wide variety of my SMEs helped solidify my research and confirmed some speculations. These interviews helped shed light on critical aspects related to cultural diversity, community engagement, accessibility, operations, and event facilitation within third spaces.
Marcos Gonzales
Marcos Gonzales, holds the position of Executive Development Officer in Bernalillo County, New Mexico. His role provided valuable insights into the importance of cultural diversity and its direct correlation with community engagement.
Although Alberquerque is a car-reliant city, according to Gonzales, walkable communities significantly contribute to enhanced community engagement and there are efforts being made to continue city development to make that happen.
Another key insight was that the perception of safety emerged as a pivotal factor influencing community turnout. Community events hosted by the county usually involve children’s events to encourage families to show up and support. Gonzales also highlighted how misconceptions about affordable housing had derailed plans for constructing accessible infrastructure, emphasizing the need for clear communication and community education.
“Because it is a public process, it needs to be something that the community wants and is in support of. We’ve had affordable housing projects in the past that got killed because the community didn’t want them. The community didn’t want the density... they wanted a Trader Joe’s or something.”
Vivian and Alie Wu
Another enlightening interview was with Vivian and Alie Wu, co-founders of Studio 45 in Bushwick.
Studio 45 is an art-focused community space. They host events and workshops for people to come try their hand at a new skill and to make friends. Their slogan is “ Come make friends. Seriously. Just Come” .
Their experience in managing a community space provided insights into the challenges of accessibility and operations. They emphasized the importance of tailoring events and workshops to different audience groups. Furthermore, the physical space played a defining role in shaping the concept of their business.
The co-founders stressed the effectiveness of advertising and marketing through both social media and word of mouth. Additionally, they noted the unexpected but positive influence of neighborhood dogs in attracting individuals to their space, emphasizing the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere with the flexibility to serve multiple purposes.
David Plant
David Plant, a Pastor and Founder of a community center called Neighbor, offered a valuable perspective as the head of a third space funded by the local church. His insights focused on the management and operations of such spaces.
Plant highlighted the significance of community trust, one way in which this is achieved is by allowing multiple individuals to have keys to the space. He mentioned multiple accounts of community members showing up for and helping each other. One instance was when an elderly neighbor’s apartment caught fire and multiple people showed up to support her and move her belongings into the basement of the community space and looked out for her until she was able to get back on her feet.
He stated that the funding for the space is sustained through donation-based methods and fundraisers. Plant also stressed the importance of hosting diverse community events, art shows, and climate meetups to maintain a vibrant and engaging atmosphere.
“There is a need for more meaningful conversation in the world and uncommon ground is holy ground... We just take each other so casually, and cynically and superficially but to really sit in a room with somebody who has a different life experience and different worldview than you, that can be a beautiful thing. ”
“I need the people in this neighborhood... I need them or I won’t survive.”
David Plant
Miles Kirsch
Miles is the founder of The Tea Stand, a nonprofit initiative that brings warmth and community to parks across New York City by offering free cups of tea to all who pass by.
Although I had noticed him at Maria Hernandez Park several times since moving to the neighborhood, I had never taken the opportunity to introduce myself. However, one day I gathered the courage to approach him, and as we conversed, I discovered that his mission aligned closely with the themes of my thesis.
He shared with me the inspiration behind The Tea Stand: on a cold winter day in the park, he found himself wishing for a cup of tea to ward off the chill. It was this simple desire that sparked his idea to provide warmth and comfort to others in the community through tea, his welcoming presence, and the inviting atmosphere he cultivates.
In addition to his work with The Tea Stand, Miles is a co-host of Steeped in Sound, a unique event held in collaboration with his co-host and DJ, Leeway. Together, they open the doors of Leeway’s loft to invite community members for an evening of intimate conversation and connection, guided by the harmonious blend of music and tea.
Dan Gross
Dan Gross serves as the Director of Product Realization at Newlab and holds the role of Treasurer on the Board of Directors at BKRot, a pioneering initiative in New York City. BKRot stands as the city’s inaugural community-supported, bike-powered, and fossil fuel-free service dedicated to collecting and composting food waste.
The project operates with a dedicated team of young individuals from diverse backgrounds, committed to hauling residential and commercial organic waste and converting it into premium-quality compost.
Dan’s journey toward community involvement began during a pivotal moment in his personal life. Seeking connection and a sense of belonging, he found himself drawn to his local community garden. There, he immersed himself in learning alongside individuals of varying backgrounds, embracing the opportunity to contribute and collaborate rather than lead. In this inclusive environment, he gained valuable skills and insights, discovering the power of teamwork and efficiency within a gender-diverse group, guided by the wisdom of those older and differently-abled than himself.
From the seeds planted in the community garden, the vision for BKRot blossomed. Today, this innovative project not only addresses the pressing issue of food waste but also serves as a beacon of empowerment and sustainability within the city’s vibrant landscape. Led by Dan’s commitment to community and environmental stewardship, BKRot stands as a testament to the transformative potential of collective action and shared purpose.
Sloan Leo Cowan
Sloan Leo Cowan, a Community Designer, Founder, CEO, and Lead Facilitator at FLOX Studio Inc, provided insights into the facilitation of events and interactions within third spaces.
According to Cowan, identifying “glimmers” (moments of happiness/highlights) in daily interactions is crucial for establishing meaningful connections.
They emphasized the importance of connecting on a personal level before delving into professional matters. Shared community agreements were seen as a prerequisite for hosting successful workshops, ensuring that all participants have an opportunity to share their thoughts and be heard.
These interviews with subject matter experts have significantly enriched my understanding of third spaces. The diverse perspectives provided by these experts have not only validated certain aspects of my research but have also presented nuanced insights into the complex dynamics of cultural diversity, community engagement, accessibility, and event facilitation within third spaces.
I then went on to conduct a series of user interviews. I identified my user group as adults ranging between ages of 21-35 who consciously try to spend time in their third spaces.
Some lovely people I met throughout my thesis journey.
Darlene Devina
As a self-proclaimed introvert and UI/UX designer who primarily works from home, Darlene highlighted the challenge of lacking proper first and second spaces in her daily life.
Working remotely, she actively seeks out third spaces for social interaction. One of them being the park near her house where every weekend she sits on a park bench and eats her fresh bagel. Although they currently don’t interact, she has noticed a few others that do the same every week as well.
Notably, she shared an experience at a dim sum restaurant where she connected with an older Chinese couple at a communal table over soy sauce even though there was a language barrier. This anecdote emphasizes the power of third spaces in fostering unexpected connections and bridging social gaps.
Jules Deschamps
As a Parisian student, Jules provided valuable insights into the cultural differences between the US and Europe in terms of social interaction and community.
Jules observed a stark contrast in culture between New York and Paris, particularly in work environments.
He resigned from a job due to a cold work culture, where employees and managers rarely interacted, hindering a sense of community. He also stated that no one would take lunch breaks or greet each other during the work day unless it was related to a task.
Jules’ experience sheds light on the importance of a collaborative and engaging work culture, factors influenced by cultural nuances.
TJ Faber
TJ is an industry analyst on the autism spectrum. He shared his unique perspective on navigating social situations.
He struggles with reading social cues and has a hard time making friendships, so he actively scans platforms like Eventbrite to attend events and make friends.
His experience provides insights into the challenges individuals on the autism spectrum face in social settings and highlights the proactive measures he takes to connect with others, even in casual settings like standing in line.
Iridian Castillo
Iridian shared a perspective deeply rooted in community and family.
Her family owns a grocery store, serving as a central meeting point for the Hispanic community in their neighborhood. As her mother only speaks Spanish, other neighbors who have trouble with English feel comfortable coming to their store and asking for help.
She recounted an instance where one woman dropped off a box of fresh baked goods at the store for another woman to pick up for a party she was hosting later that day. This exemplifies how third spaces, often unexpected like a neighborhood store, play a pivotal role in community connections and support.
The common factor among all these interviews was that everyone talked very fondly about their interactions with the community. They were very proud of stepping out of their comfort zones and connecting with others.
The most impactful form of research for me during this process occurred subconsciously.
As I immersed myself in media on this topic and honed the ability to recognize patterns and people in my community, I felt a transformation in my attitudes and sense of belonging. I found myself making a conscious effort to engage in small talk with those around me and be a friendly face in the neighborhood.
Stepping out of my comfort zone, I attended events alone, worked on projects in coffee shops (despite my initial dislike), and visited bars to sketch.
The most profound and eye-opening moments were those chance encounters with people in my community that led to spontaneous interviews.
In one instance, an interviewee candidly shared the details of a very challenging situation that was occurring in their life, surprising me with their openness to a total stranger. We proceeded to conduct the interview and they provided me with some amazing insights. When asked about what it means to have a third space they said “I want the record to scratch for the guy behind me. That’s the third space experience.” emphasizing the space’s ability to transform and allow you to be both a spectator and the main character as need be.
What struck me most during that interview wasn’t just the valuable information they provided; it was the genuine moment of connection and trust. They needed someone to listen, and I was grateful to offer that support.
At the end of the interview, when I asked why they decided to help out a random graduate student amid their own challenges, they simply replied,
“Well, at least I can say I lived for an hour today,”
expressing gratitude for a temporary escape from their reality. In that moment, I realized the profound impact of human connection and the significance of being there for one another.
3
Ideation, Prototyping & Early Exploration
The initial ideation and prototyping phase explored the topic of third places as a whole. In the early stages, I was looking at ways to create new true third spaces that were accessible to all in terms of time, money, and inclusivity.
One of my first ideas looked at how the furniture and architecture of third spaces can have a massive effect on the user’s experience in them. Which led me to this question:
How can we provide individuals with a sense of agency, allowing them to personalize and rearrange the environment, ultimately enhancing their overall experience and fostering a dynamic and inclusive communal atmosphere?
I created provotypes of a system of modular public seating structures that give the user agency of the space by allowing them to move the parts/sections around and activate the space.
Another direction I explored was:
How might we create a moment of connection amongst strangers in a preexisting third space?
These design explorations led me to look into how hostile architecture in urban spaces hinders social interaction and community engagement, creating unwelcoming environments.
Which brought along the question:
How can we address the need for more inclusive and welcoming urban environments on a smaller and more personal scale?
So I created-
A Brief Conversation
A compact seat that folds out of a briefcase for when you’re on the go.
Ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a first date, a picnic, even a business meeting, “A Brief Conversation” has you covered. Crafted with convenience in mind, this portable seat ensures you’re always prepared, offering both comfort and practicality wherever you go.
I also hosted a co-creation session where 5 participants from different backgrounds and occupations worked together to answer the question of:
How can design support non productive socializing as third places vanish and the remaining ones prioritize productivity?
We did this through a name game where we named as many third places as possible.
I then facilitated a Kiss/marry/kill session based on the answers from the first round.
Kiss: 3 things that make you happy about the space
Marry: 3 things that you would never change about the space
Kill: 3 things you hate or would like to change about the space
And then created collages envisioning an ideal third space.
Participants shared their thoughts and recollected stories and moments where they truly felt a sense of belonging with their community.
This process shifted my perspective—rather than designing new spaces, I saw an opportunity to cultivate meaningful connections within existing ones.
Another prototype I created was the MetroMingle Mailbox to answer the question of:
How might we ensure a low barrier to entry to interactions in third spaces in terms of time, money and inclusivity?
What is it?
The MetroMingle Mailbox is a community drop-off box designed to foster moments of connection within a neighborhood. The design mirrors the iconic architecture of NYC apartment buildings.
The mailbox is an open canvas for the community’s collective creativity. It follows the design language of a Little Free Library to invite residents to contribute and connect with their community and move towards a more collectivistic culture of living.
Who is it for?
The MetroMingle Mailbox can be used by anyone and everyone that passes by it.
Businesses, homeowners, apartment buildings, or individuals can download the file for free online and create their own mailbox for their neighborhood.
How does it work?
The user can simply lift the lid (or raise the roof) and place their note inside. The contributions will be collected weekly and shared with community members through a website and email newsletter or on a shared community board.
Possible contributions include:
* Artwork
* Poetry and prose
* Event announcements
* Photographs
* Community suggestions
* Invitations for collaborative projects
* Shared recipes
* Books or movie recommendations
* Local news clippings
* Letters of appreciation
* Community surveys
* Environmental initiatives
* Small gifts
* Collaborative artifacts such as contributions for a shared project
Learnings
* Need to edit the design to prevent unwanted use and products such as trash being thrown in the mailbox.
* Consider implementing design language and familiarity of rolling up paper and placing it inside the “windows” of the apartment building such as at the Western Wall in Jerusalem.
Design Principles
“There is an epidemic of loneliness in the United States and lacking connection can increase the risk for premature death to levels comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.”
Dr
Vivek Murthy Surgeon General of the United States
In May 2023, the Surgeon General of the United States issued a sobering advisory- we are facing an epidemic of loneliness.
This declaration served as a clarion call, highlighting the impact of social disconnection on our health and well-being. As I embarked on my thesis journey, this advisory became my guiding light, informing every aspect of my design process.
The advisory outlined a comprehensive framework for addressing the loneliness epidemic, delineating six foundational pillars upon which a National Strategy to Advance Social Connection could be built.
Each pillar provided invaluable insights into the multifaceted nature of social disconnection and offered a roadmap for fostering meaningful connection within communities.
1. Strengthen Social
Infrastructure
Connections are not just influenced by individual interactions, but by the physical elements of a community (parks, libraries, playgrounds) and the programs and policies in place. To strengthen social infrastructure, communities must design environments that promote connection, establish and scale community connection programs, and invest in institutions that bring people together.
2. Enact Pro-Connection Public Policies
National, state, local, and tribal governments play a role in establishing policies like accessible public transportation or paid family leave that can support and enable more connection among a community or a family.
3. Mobilize the Health Sector
Because loneliness and isolation are risk factors for several major health conditions (including heart disease, dementia, depression) as well as for premature death, health care providers are well-positioned to assess patients for risk of loneliness and intervene.
4. Reform Digital Environments
We must critically evaluate our relationship with technology and ensure that how we interact digitally does not detract from meaningful and healing connection with others.
5. Deepen Our Knowledge
A more robust research agenda, beyond the evidence outlined in the advisory, must be established to further our understanding of the causes and consequences of social disconnection, populations at risk, and the effectiveness of efforts to boost connection.
6. Cultivate a Culture of Connection
The informal practices of everyday life (the norms and culture of how we engage one another) significantly influence the relationships we have in our lives. We cannot be successful in the other pillars without a culture of connection.
My work was guided by these pillars, serving as a roadmap for designing interventions that facilitate connection and combat social isolation.
From facilitating casual interactions to creating tools for group engagement, every aspect of my thesis was driven by a commitment to fostering meaningful connections within communities.
As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of the lasting impact that design can have in shaping the social fabric of our world and the transformative power of connection in creating a more resilient and compassionate society.
Coop is a community interaction point designed to foster moments of connection to third spaces within a neighborhood.
It focuses on solving for pillars 1 and 6 of the Surgeon General’s Advisory i.e:
1. Strengthen Social Infrastructure
6. Cultivate a Culture of Connection.
Who is it for?
Coop is intended for preexisting third places that want to create and promote a culture of community and togetherness.
How does it work?
Coop inspires individuals to pause and express gratitude through thoughtful prompts.
Those passing by have the opportunity to engage by reflecting on their positive community interactions and leaving a brief note to acknowledge those moments.
Users are encouraged to take a note and leave one, creating a low-stakes process that helps individuals reflect on how their community enriches their lives.
How do I get one?
Buy a ready to assemble kit from coop.com and set one up in your space, or
Download a free vector file to build one yourself.
Additionally, the design can be custom made to represent your neighborhood.
Tina is browsing the local boutique store and notices a Coop box.
She asks the shop clerk how to use it, and he explains, “It’s actually quite simple.”
What’s your favorite secret spot in the neighborhood?
Tina engages by leaving a note based on the prompt of the day. Today’s prompt is “What’s your favorite secret spot in the neighborhood?”
She shares hers...
And then picks up another note...
Leading her to discover a new garden in the area.
Tina visits the garden and strikes up a conversation with a neighbor, forging a new connection
Prompts
The prompts are changed weekly by the storewners and some examples include:
“What’s your go-to dish at the local restaurants? Let’s share our favorites!”
“Discover any hidden gems in the neighborhood lately? Share your favorite spots!”
“Have a favorite book that you can’t stop talking about?”
“Tell us about your furry friends! Share your favorite pet stories or tips.”
“Got a green thumb? Share your gardening tips or favorite plants!”
“Know of any upcoming events in the neighborhood?”
“Discover any local art or artists? Share your finds and support local creativity!”
“Favorite jogging route or outdoor workout spot? Let’s stay active together!”
“Have a skill you’d like to share? Let’s create a skill exchange network!”
“Learn something interesting about our neighborhood’s history? Share the knowledge!”
“Any DIY enthusiasts around? Share your favorite projects or handy tips!”
“Are there any unique traditions in our neighborhood? Let’s celebrate together!”
“Found any binge-worthy shows lately? Let’s swap recommendations!”
“Where do you go to unwind? Share your favorite parks or relaxation spots!”
Coop also maintains a newsletter and social media presence, spotlighting positive interactions for the community to see.
Benefits to Business Owners
• Visual Representation of Community Space: Enhances the store’s image as a communal third space.
• Extended Customer Shop Time: Encourages customers to spend more time in the store.
• Facilitates Connection: Creates opportunities for customers to engage and connect, fostering a sense of community.
• Low Cost and Easy Maintenance: Cost-effective solution with minimal maintenance requirements.
• Customer Loyalty: Increases the likelihood of repeat visits as customers return for the positive community experience.
Benefits to Customers:
• Low-Stakes Interaction:
Allows customers to engage with minimal pressure, fostering a relaxed environment.
• New Community Connections: Introduces a novel way for individuals to connect with their community.
• Moment of Reflection: Provides a space for customers to pause and reflect on community interactions.
• Community Interaction Spotlight: Elevates the importance of community interactions, creating awareness and appreciation for human connections.
Neighbor is a community-centric app designed to foster connections among neighbors by recommending local events and meetups based on common interests.
Neighbor encourages community engagement, promotes face-toface interactions, and supports local businesses through increased neighborhood spending.
The initial user journey examined the broader landscape, helping guide the decisions on essential platform features.
Public Characters
Individuals in third places play a crucial role as Public Characters.
As mentioned before, in her book The Death and Life of Great American Cities, Jane Jacobs defines a Public Character as “anyone who is in frequent contact with a wide circle of people and who is sufficiently interested to make himself a public character. A public character need have no special talents or wisdom to fulfill his function- although he often does. He just needs to be present, and there need to be enough of his counterparts. His main qualification is that he is public, that he talks to lots of different people.”
Their mere presence and interaction contribute to public life, fostering connections among diverse individuals.
We are losing these public characters in our society today which is why I wanted to bring them to the forefront through this app.
Create an account create and a personalized character profile that best represents you.
See recommended events nearby based on your profile.
Explore and filter through all events nearby.
Choose an event you’d like to attend.
See other attendees’ profiles.
The app shows compatibility percentages and allows users to chat if they are attending the same event .
Rate and review your experiences.
A meter illustrates users’ impact on their neighborhood and community via the time spent interacting in person.
During the event, Neighbor encourages users to be present and in the moment by sending a push notification to turn on Do Not Disturb mode.
Neighbor is committed to harnessing technology to bolster real-world connections that enrich local communities.
“Regular physical activity reduces the risk of developing depression and anxiety disorders.”
American Journal of Psychiatry
“83% of respondents who participated in team sports reported feeling a strong sense of trust towards their teammates, contributing to their overall satisfaction with the sport experience.”
“State of Play 2020: Trends and Developments,” Aspen Institute, 2020
Over the past year, I immersed myself in a dedicated yoga practice and experienced firsthand its profound benefits on both my mental and physical well-being. Coincidentally, my research shed light on the pivotal role of team sports and group workouts in nurturing bonds and trust among participants.
While “group” exercise courses do exist, these are often done simply in the proximity of others, and not actively engaging with them.
Currently, most dedicated workout equipment is geared towards individual practice, and there are no products in the market that exist for communal exercise.
This realization inspired Align, a health and wellness brand aimed at bridging this gap and addressing pillars 3 and 6 of the Surgeon General’s advisory.
Specializing in communal workout equipment tailored for shared yoga experiences, Align empowers individuals to strengthen connections and build trust through synchronized practice.
Align is dedicated to fostering unity through movement
People & Places
This project started with a speculative design process where I created two experential typologies of the proposed experience which were illustrated as postcards.
I then went back to my earlier research and compiled some of the insights I had gathered in addition to focusing on the pillars 1, 5 and 6 as outlined in the National Strategy to Advace Social Connection. i.e.:
1. Strengthen Social Infrastructure
5. Deepen Our Knowledge
6. Cultivate a Culture of Connection
This process helped me get a better idea of what to focus on in order to create a true third space where people have the opportunity to connect with each other.
This People and Places event aims to bring together young artists, designers, and creatives for a serendipitous collaborative art project that combines the energy of a street art jam, the impact of public art installations, and the collaborative spirit of a community mural project.
All passersby are not only welcome but also encouraged to pause and actively participate in the project, contributing through drawing and engaging in conversations with those sharing the creative space- thus activating the third space.
The vision for this event was to create a space which is energetic, full of conversations, playful and connective.
It consisted of 2 activities, the first being a communal art piece which was created by the participants through a blind drawing activity where they had to draw the portrait of the person in front of them without looking at the paper below.
The next part aimed at getting insight on the question of “what does community mean to you?” Participants were encouraged to write/sketch/visualize their thoughts and create a collection of post it notes based on the prompts provided.
The event was hosted on March 23, 2024 between 4-6 pm at a community center in Chelsea called Neighbor.
I had interviewed the founder of the space and pastor, David Plant, as part of my research and reached out to them to inquire about hosting the event there. Their team was very generous and allowed me to use their space free of charge as the event was open to the public and for the good of the community.
I went on to create assets including posters, an instagram account and an eventbrite page to help promote the event.
The event was a great success and the participants stated that they really enjoyed meeting new people through this.
The blind drawing activity, although a bit nerve-wracking at first, served as a clever icebreaker that encouraged eye contact and conversation.
Conclusion
As I reach the culmination of my thesis journey, I am humbled by the rich tapestry of experiences and encounters that have shaped my understanding of community and connection. Over the past year, my thesis has led me down unexpected paths, guided by the serendipity of chance encounters within my community.
In these moments, I found myself engaging in spontaneous interviews with individuals from diverse backgrounds, professions and clutures including a DJ, a pastor, store owners, city officials, and more. Despite the diversity of their occupations, each person I engaged with shares a common commitment to giving back and enriching their community.
These conversations served as windows into the collective soul of our society, revealing the innate desire within each of us to connect, to belong, and to contribute to something greater than ourselves. Whether through food, music, design, spirituality, entrepreneurship, or governance, each individual brought a unique perspective to the table, enriching my understanding of the multifaceted nature of community building.
My thesis journey has been a testament to the transformative power of community, reaffirming my belief in the boundless potential of human connection to shape our world for the better. As I bid farewell to this chapter of my life, I carry with me the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the enduring
hope that together, we can build a future where every individual feels seen, heard, and valued.
In the end, my thesis is not just a culmination of academic research and design projects—it is a celebration of the human spirit, a testament to the beauty of community, and a call to action to cultivate connections that nourish the soul and make us human.
Thank you to all who have been a part of this journey, for your wisdom and your generosity. I could not have completed this thesis without my community.
Vimmi Sharma
Raman Sharma
Rahul Sharma
Akshita Bawa
Alex De Looz
Alexia Cohen
Alie Wu
Allan Chochinov
Amal Shaheedi
Amit Chakraborty
Anastasia Gorski
Ankita Srivastav
Bill Cromie
Brydon Yao
Col Lindemuth
Cyntia Abarca
Dan Gross
Darlene Devina
David Plant
Emilie Baltz
Emma Briguad
Harsha Pillai
Heba Jaleel
Iridian Castillio
Isha Nabar
Jacey Chen
Jaemin Cho
Jorge Chico
Jules Deschamps
Julia Knoll
Kiel Mead
Krissi Xenakis
Kristine Mudd
Leeway
Marcos Gonzales
Mariana Fuentes Mier
Miles Kirsch
Nigel Keen Nymph Yang
Partick Baca-Chandler
Paul Gudemann
Pavit Kaur
Ria John
Rohitha Remala
Rora Pan
Rui Yang
Sam Potts
Sama Srinivas
Sammy Bernstein
Shun Cheng Hsieh
Simi Sanghavi
Sinclair Smith
Solan Leo
TJ Faber
VFL Staff
Vivian Wu
Wren Wang
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Prerna Sharma is a maker and multi-disciplinary designer based in New York City. She has a background in Industrial Design and received her BFA from the Parsons School of Design in Product Design along with a minor in Printmaking.
With a diverse background spanning solar-powered plastic production, ceramics, and wholesale brand representation, she has held various roles in her professional career.
In 2023, Prerna established Villa Number 7, a design studio named after her childhood home in Qatar. The studio focuses on creating functional, beautiful, and environmentally responsible objects, with a current emphasis on handcrafting one of a kind brass and sterling silver jewelry. The jewelry has been showcased at AmericasMart, Las Vegas Market, and Shoppe Object. It is available for sale in retail stores across the United States, including the Newark Museum of Art.
Prerna received her MFA in Products of Design at the School of Visual Arts. Her thesis, “Longing For Belonging: Rediscovering Community Through Third Places,” explores the significance of third spaces in society and the potential of design to address the Epidemic of Loneliness.
