Diversity of Perception: Voices in the Urban Environment

Development policies for sustainable cities should address the needs of all residents and be based on an understanding of the social complexity of urban contexts, as well as the diverse needs, expectations and lifestyles of large segments of the population that are often overlooked by growth models driven by purely economic considerations. The design of shared resources such as transport systems, green spaces, housing, public spaces and cultural services must be aligned with gender equity objectives and address the specific challenges faced by citizens of different generations. This paper discusses the importance of addressing citizens’ diverse needs and perspectives through design initiatives that seek to understand different population groups, particularly those at risk of marginalisation. The document emphasises the importance of considering inclusion in the design of services and facilities as an opportunity to create solutions that benefit all citizens. It explores the various forms of marginalisation that manifest in urban environments and presents case studies of initiatives that counteract them. Finally, it discusses various design approaches that can be employed in research for design to address inclusion by analysing the diverse experiences of citizens. These approaches include user studies, co-design, systemic design, and data-driven design, enabling the adoption of project strategies that give voice to communities living in the territory.