The Power of Inclusive architecture | Arna Mackic | TEDxAmsterdam

The Role of Architecture in Shaping Inclusive Cities

The Future of Urban Living

• Estimates suggest that by 2050, 66% of the world's population will reside in cities, highlighting their growing importance as homes for nearly all people.

• The survival of cities is questioned amidst changing languages and nations, raising concerns about their ability to endure through time.

Personal Experience and Architectural Insight

• Architect Arnhem Our Couch emphasizes architecture's potential to foster connections among individuals and create shared memories within urban spaces.

• A lack of recognition in public spaces can lead to feelings of alienation; if individuals cannot relate to their surroundings, they may feel excluded from contributing to the community.

Identity and Belonging

• The speaker reflects on personal experiences with nationalism, exclusion, and being a refugee, which shaped their perspective on architecture's role in society.

• Growing up in a mixed yet segregated neighborhood allowed the speaker to appreciate diverse identities but also highlighted how architecture can either include or exclude groups based on cultural backgrounds.

Consequences of Exclusion

• After the war in Bosnia Herzegovina, significant destruction led to loss not only of physical structures but also cultural identity; this serves as a warning against neglecting inclusivity in urban planning.

• Public buildings and spaces are vital for personal histories; when these are destroyed or altered without consideration for all citizens' stories, it erases parts of collective memory.

The Impact of Destruction on Community

• The destruction of Mostar's old bridge symbolizes the severance between communities; it was more than just a structure—it represented connection and shared history. This act exemplifies how violence can erase cultural identity from cities.

• Changes in access rules can similarly strip away community ties; witnessing such transformations reinforces the idea that cities are built from memories rather than just materials like bricks or concrete.

Lessons for Modern Urban Development

• The speaker argues that understanding past mistakes is crucial for creating inclusive urban environments today; this discussion transcends historical contexts and applies directly to contemporary city life.

• To build truly inclusive cities, there must be an acknowledgment that public spaces often reflect narratives from only certain groups while excluding others—this needs urgent attention for change to occur.

The Importance of Diverse Urban Spaces

The Role of History in Urban Design

• The selection of historical elements in urban design reflects societal values, determining what and who is deemed important.

• Current urban environments often prioritize expensive, aesthetically pleasing spaces, leading to a loss of diversity and connection among citizens.

The Need for Human Connection

• Genuine human encounters with diverse individuals are essential for personal identity and community cohesion.

• In Mostar, the physical separation between communities undermines meaningful connections, reducing cultural symbols to mere facades.

Shared Rituals as a Unifying Force

• Public spaces should foster shared experiences; the tradition of diving from the old bridge serves as a metaphor for unity across different backgrounds.

• A proposed monument dedicated to this diving ritual aims to connect people through shared courage and communal activities.

Rethinking Urban Development

• Cities must be designed to encourage interactions among diverse groups through inclusive public spaces that honor collective histories.

• There is a call for policymakers and architects to embrace diversity and inclusivity in their designs, reflecting the stories of all citizens.

Engaging with Community Narratives

• Politicians should actively listen to their constituents' stories, ensuring representation that resonates with all community members.

• Citizens are encouraged to explore their cities actively, engaging with the untold stories of fellow residents.