Introduction

Time flies, the second semester’s courses have come to an end. After studying writing last semester, I have basically mastered the basic process and framework structure of blog writing. In this journey, I enjoy posting my ideas on social media and commenting on my companions.

In this course, I have published two blogs, one about co-living community design in class “Housing Alternatives – ARC8069” and the other about urban design to deal with loneliness in class “Design Thesis – ARC8117”.

Blog1: How to create a co-living community?

In the first blog, I conducted a survey and research on the concept of co-living community. Co-living communities have emerged globally, inspired by European models dating back to the 1970s. Examples like Marmalade Lane and Bridport Cohousing showcase innovative approaches to urban living, emphasizing shared amenities, eco-friendly design, and social cohesion.

Designers integrate communal spaces into urban plans, fostering vibrant, inclusive neighborhoods. By prioritizing public areas, green spaces, and recreational facilities, these developments promote community engagement and well-being, catering to diverse residents’ needs and enhancing the overall urban experience.

Blog2: How to deal with loneliness in urban design?

For the graduation project topic for next semester, I conducted some data research and case studies on “How to eliminate loneliness through urban design”. Loneliness is a pressing concern in today’s urban landscape, particularly evident in statistics showing a significant portion of UK adults experiencing occasional to chronic loneliness. While urban design traditionally prioritizes physical infrastructure like parks and public transport, it often neglects the emotional needs of residents. Kevin Thwaites highlights this oversight, emphasizing the importance of addressing spiritual infrastructure in urban planning.The

Tokyo Loneliness Tree Hole Plan offers a unique solution by proposing secluded spaces for individuals to seek solitude and introspection. These “tree holes” serve as quiet sanctuaries where individuals can retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life without fear of judgment or disturbance. By embracing privacy as an antidote to loneliness, the plan depathologizes solitude and offers an alternative to traditional notions of community.

Summary

This semester’s blog creation journey has solidified my design foundation and enabled me to make significant progress in my professional field. For example, I have conducted in-depth learning on the concept of co-living communities and collected some famous co-housing cases in the UK, which has helped me advance my course design. At the same time, I provided a data survey and analysis on contemporary loneliness social issues. And than I selected the theme of my graduation project: the plan to eliminate loneliness. The Tokyo Tree Hole Project case has given me a lot of inspiration. It starts from different populations, explores their different needs and provides specific intervention measures.

In conclusion, I have mastered the basic skills required to become a blogger. Additionally,  it also honed my ability to conduct in-depth research and discussion on a specific topic. Fortunately, at the end of the second semester, I saw the aurora in Newcastle with my classmates. I believe this is a wonderful end to the second semester and a hopeful start to the graduation semester.

Figure1: Aurora in Newcastle (captured by Yuzhi Yao on May 10, 2024)