SOCIAL AND CULTURAL SOLUTIONS FOR RECLAIMING PUBLIC OPEN SPACES IN MULTI-FAMILY NEIGHBOURHOODS: THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK AND BEST PRACTICE SOLUTIONS

This paper explores social and cultural solutions (SCS) for reclaiming public open spaces (POS) in multi-family neighborhoods, acknowledging their essential role in social, cultural, and economic development often underrealized. The research aims to identify SCS characteristics and diverse applications, while defining effective institutional, planning, and design approaches for successful POS (re)integration. Drawing on theoretical frameworks and strategic documents, alongside an analysis of best practice examples like Drewitz, Taasinge Plads, Gorica and Augustenborg, the study demonstrates how SCS enhance residential satisfaction, neighborhood perception, socio-economic status, and social inclusion. It underscores that robust resident participation is critical for initial acceptance and sustained management of POS. Furthermore, the study reveals that synergistically combining SCS with ecologically-based approaches (e.g., Nature-based Solutions, Sustainable Drainage Systems) significantly broadens these benefits, contributing to enhanced climate and social resilience, and overall sustainable urban development. This research offers actionable guidelines for practitioners to design more responsive and livable multi-family housing environments.