Young Carnisse
Enhancing the mental wellbeing of adolescents through urban design
S. Keukens (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
M.G.A.D. Harteveld – Mentor
J.A. Kuijper – Mentor
D.A. Sepulveda Carmona – Graduation committee member
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Abstract
This graduation project investigates the relationship between public space and the mental wellbeing of adolescents in Carnisse, a post-war neighbourhood in Rotterdam. The project addresses the research question: To what extent does public space influence the mental wellbeing of adolescents and how can its design be adapted to improve the wellbeing of adolescents in Carnisse? It focuses on the context of post-war neighbourhoods, where spatial structure that were originally designed for housing efficiency, often mismatch with the contemporary social and developmental needs of adolescents.
Through a combination of literature review, historical analysis, spatial analysis and observations based on informed empathy, the research explores how adolescents use and experience public space. These findings show that mental wellbeing is primarily influenced by personal and societal factors, but that public space plays an important supporting role in relation to safety, social interaction, autonomy and connectedness to the neighbourhood. Public space can therefore contribute to creating environments in which adolescents feel comfortable, included, and welcome.
Based on these insights, a transformation strategy was developed that consists of three interconnected layers: connect, activate and intensify. By improving soft mobility routes, activating underutilized public spaces, and introducing new functions and youth housing, the project proposes a more inclusive and future-proof neighbourhood where the daily lives and experiences of adolescents are placed at the centre of urban development.