In February we started with a research commissioned by the Social Design Foundation for the City of Amsterdam. Together with Vrije Universiteit (VU) Amsterdam, we are researching creating livable spaces in the neighborhoods of Zuidoost. Here are some of the first results…
We selected two neighborhoods as case studies. The project team has started in Venserpolder with the research. The first part of the research covered a survey filled in by 131 residents about the use of shared spaces The team also conducted interviews with 30 community members to get a more in-depth understanding. The team spoke with a diverse group of Venserpolder residents, living in the area’s typical five-story portiekwoningen. Some had lived there for over ten years, others for less than five. One notable group stood out: the connectors. These are residents with frequent interethnic contacts—over half of their social circle has a different ethnic background. They see the neighborhood’s diversity as a strength and actively help bridge different communities.
Both connecting and unpleasant
While researchers at VU explored the sociological dimensions, our focus was on the spatial aspects of the neighborhood. Around two-thirds of the residents we interviewed described positive interactions with neighbors in semi-private spaces like entrance halls and staircases. Interestingly, this sense of connection did not extend to more public areas such as the streets and inner courtyards. Despite their design intent, these spaces are perceived as anonymous and even unsafe. Rather than encouraging encounters, their layout appears to discourage them. Notably, almost all social interaction occurs through residents’ own initiative—mainly in the stairwells—rather than being sparked by public spaces that are meant for creating connections between residents.
The aim of this research is not to directly intervene in the neighborhoods that we study. But rather to gain spatial insights for future urban development. We’re focusing on how physical environments either support or hinder community interaction and a sense of belonging. We look at how people move in the neighborhood and where they meet each other. On a more detailed level, we’re also looking at how residential architecture can play a role in making a house a home. For example, what dimensions should a shared hallway or entrance have in order to feel safe? And should these areas be accessible at all times, or secured at night? These questions help us to make a shared space both functional and welcoming.
Sharing the results
In mid-April, we presented our findings from Venserpolder—together with VU—to several housing corporations and the City of Amsterdam. The response was positive and quickly sparked discussion about upcoming projects. One corporation is planning a new neighborhood center; another is developing a community garden elsewhere in Zuidoost. However, our research shows that such enclosed spaces are rarely used for social interaction. Instead, most encounters happen in more public areas, such as the walk to the metro—especially in places where the design allows for spontaneous meetings.
Next up
The project team is still busy analyzing the findings from Venserpolder. We have also started with the second part of the research in K-torens, Zuidoost.
In the coming months, we’ll process and combine the results from both neighborhoods into a report. The results will serve as a model for future city developments where all residents—regardless of their origin or socio-economic status—feel at home.
