Choose your future: the dialogue between different stakeholders in a participatory design process of urban greening projects in multicultural environment

Dr. Elena Bondarenko

Master's thesis

Abstract:

The built environment is undergoing significant transformation due to increasing urbanization and the impacts of climate change, further complicated by the rising of urban migration. The densification of urban spaces emphasizes the considerable role of green areas in maintaining the quality of life for those living in a city. Landscape architects and urban planners face complex challenges in addressing these shifts, requiring transdisciplinary approaches that involve non-academic stakeholders in knowledge production. A vital aspect of this approach is participatory design, where governmental entities, designers, and stakeholders collaborate to meet end-user needs. This is particularly crucial in multicultural environments, where diverse cultural backgrounds impact interpersonal relations. However, integrating people into the planning process requires understanding each location's unique social and spatial context. This thesis employs several research approaches. Research on Design methodology was used to focus on comparative case studies of De Peperklip (the Netherlands) and Superkilen (Denmark), which utilize participatory design processes in multicultural contexts during the design of open spaces / shared spaces. By examining these case studies, the thesis aims to highlight the aspects such as transdiscplinarity, that is important to consider during participatory design processes that has culturally diverse participants. The second approach is related to the Research for Design methodology, which is needed to understand the complexities of the participatory design process; a set of interviews was conducted with crucial stakeholders engaged in the De Peperklip project in the Netherlands. This study's findings indicate the difficulties landscape architects and urban designers could face in participatory design in diverse cultural neighborhoods. This understanding is crucial for informing and enhancing future projects to create comfortable and inclusive spaces for all.

Keywords

participatory design, multicultural environment, urban green spaces, transdisciplinary approach, urban resilience

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 28. 3. 2024

Thesis defence

• Supervisor: doc. Peter Kumble, Ph.D.
• Reader: Vlaďka Kirschner, Ph.D.

Czech University of Life Sciences Prague

Faculty of Environmental Sciences

Master programme / field:
Landscape Engineering / Landscape Planning