To understand how the design of physical spaces influences experiences of gender, identity, and belonging, it is necessary to look at the way that these concepts are defined. Gender refers to the socially constructed roles and behaviors associated with being male or female, while identity encompasses all aspects of one's self-concept, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, religion, social class, education, age, appearance, and personality. Belonging refers to the feeling of connection and acceptance within a particular group or community. These three concepts interact in complex ways with the built environment, shaping the way people experience space and each other.
One aspect of this interaction is the creation of specific spaces for different genders and identities.
Bathrooms have traditionally been divided by gender into men's rooms and women's rooms, creating a sense of separation and exclusion for those who do not conform to traditional gender roles.
Recent efforts to create gender-neutral restrooms have challenged this binary system, recognizing that there is a spectrum of gender identities beyond just "male" and "female." Similarly, religious buildings may be designed to accommodate specific rituals and traditions related to gender or identity, such as separate seating areas for men and women during services. The physical layout of these spaces can reinforce or challenge existing power dynamics, reinforcing normative expectations about gender and identity or allowing for greater flexibility and inclusion.
Another way that design can influence experiences of gender, identity, and belonging is through the use of color, light, and texture. Different colors have been associated with different genders and sexual orientations throughout history, with pink often seen as feminine and blue as masculine. Lighting levels can also affect how people feel in a space, with bright lights conveying energy and activity while dimmer lights suggesting intimacy and relaxation. Texture can create a tactile sensory experience, inviting touch and connection between individuals. In some cases, designers may intentionally use these elements to create a sense of comfort or discomfort based on gender or identity, shaping the way people move through and interact within a space.
Architecture and urban planning can also play a role in influencing experiences of gender, identity, and belonging. Urban landscapes are often planned around male bodies, with wide sidewalks, large building facades, and ample parking creating an environment that prioritizes mobility over safety or accessibility. This can lead to feelings of alienation and exclusion for those who do not fit this mold, including elderly people, disabled people, and parents with young children. Similarly, public spaces like parks and plazas may be designed to encourage socializing or recreation but may exclude certain groups due to their size or location.
Sports fields are often located in open areas away from residential neighborhoods, making them less accessible for families with small children.
The relationship between physical space and experiences of gender, identity, and belonging is complex and multifaceted. Designers must consider how their choices will impact diverse users, recognizing the ways that power dynamics and societal norms shape how people move through and perceive the built environment. By creating spaces that are inclusive, welcoming, and responsive to changing needs, they can help foster a more just and equitable society.
How does the design of physical spaces influence experiences of gender, identity, and belonging?
Designing physical spaces can have significant effects on people's perceptions of their own gender, identities, and sense of belongingness. Research has shown that gender is shaped by a complex interplay of biology, socialization, culture, and environment (Hill 2016). Physical spaces are part of this environment, and they can reinforce existing gender norms, create new ones, or challenge them.