Social Sustainability and Social Innovation Design: towards a memorable family space

Abstract

This research investigates the concept of social sustainability and social innovation within residential spaces design. Residential spaces and particularly homes hold precious users memory that is associated with space and place. Houses also play an essential role in maintaining social sustainability. Social sustainability means creating inclusive, healthy, and secure communities, starting with families and users' needs and aspirations. This research aims to innovate a family living place design that helps preserve and make memories. Qualitative methodology was used applying the design thinking approach, including responses from the interviewees, which is the most effective method concerning the topic. Different design thinking phases of empathy, ideation, prototyping, and testing were adopted in this research, with six interviewees who took part in this study. Also, the observation method was used to investigate possible design guidelines. Analysis tools included user persona and empathy maps. The observation of users has led to the design guidelines, which have been proved effective through testing them in a simulated design rendering of a living room using 3Ds MAX software. The research concludes the usefulness of implementing proposed design guidelines in solving social and interior issues.