#Third Spaces

On homelessness, public space, and freedom #politics #leftism #homelessness #thirdspace #philosophy

From Third Spaces ➡️ The Office ➡️ ____ 👀🔮?? Tracing the evolution of human connection reveals a fascinating thread 🧵 Throughout history, what made us feel a sense of connection and created a connective tissue between neighbors were public gathering places (squares, parks etc.) and so-called “Third Spaces”, as sociologist Ray Oldenburg coined. These are places beyond the home and the office – the library, church, and coffee shops, and play a vital role in fostering a sense of community and social connectedness. More recent history links the idea of third places to the development of modern coffee shops, which became especially popular in Europe as places for philosophers, intellectuals, and socialites to gather and exchange ideas in the 16th and 17th centuries. Then, with the industrial age came the office. Quickly, work turned into a new religion, and the office became the place where we’d spend most of our time. Fast forward to the present, technology has significantly changed how we interact and use third places. With the abrupt interruption of the traditional in-place 9-5 in 2020, Zoom became our new office. When working from the comfort of pajamas becomes indistinguishable from a pair of slacks, it becomes increasingly difficult to encourage people to leave the comfort of their homes and gather. The physical and social ergonomics of work look increasingly like sitting in solitude, connected by screens, tethered to keyboards — working together, alone. Now, after more than two years of remote-working wars, it feels like half of the workforce is being forced back into offices, while the other half is working from home — both feel lonely and disconnected from people and environments around them (declared a “Loneliness Epidemic” by the WHO) This year, our focus is on exploring the necessary social infrastructures and tools for this new way of living and working — out of office, and get you back out there! Read more about our focus in our newsletter via the link in our bio & join us for collectively exploring the future beyond the 9-5 office space.

everyone seems to be talking about third places right now so let me define it for folks who may not be as familiar! . . . #thirdplace #buildingcommunity #makingfriends #thirdplaces

Let’s dig into this rise in “participatory design” 👀 We’re seeing public spaces start to adopt brand identities that are fluid and adapting to user input - aka, participatory design. A great example is Kulturhavna in Norway. This was once an industrial harbor—a space for ships and cargo. Now, it’s been transformed into a cultural third space. The Norwegian creative agency Anti created a visual identity that’s rooted in participatory design practice. Shaped by its environment, the brand adapts, moves and morphs depending on its application, similar to how the development of Kulturhavna itself changes to meet its residents’ needs. The visual system is based on 375 illustrative components and 125 activity icons, culminating in almost two million possible configurations. Every piece—from signage to digital touchpoints and modular typography—works together to create an identity that’s easy to navigate but impossible to ignore. I think I t’s inspiring to know that brand can be used beyond just creating recognition but as a tool for participation and engagement? Have you noticed participatory identities around you? I’m excited to see this style of design increase this year. #brandstrategy #brandidentity #graphicdesign #communityfirst #thirdspace

spaces where people naturally congregate outside of work and home are third spaces! socially, third spaces not only foster connection but also allow for community to thrive! do you have third spaces around you? do you rely on them for enjoyment? #ubettabelizeittt #explore

Can it third space? #thirdspace #fyp #thirdspaces #thirdspaceusa #fortmyers #downtownfortmyers #thingstodofortmyers

You need to be third space maxxing

Whether you’re a student or a remote worker - third spaces are a great way to improve your productivity and social life! Comment below your favourite third spaces and let me know if you’d like to see more vlogs 💛 #thirdspace #productivityboost #worklifebalance

the power of intentional third spaces

As the needs of third spaces evolve so does the design language used to bring them to life

A third place or “3rd space” is a social environment that is neither home (the first space) nor work (the second space), where people can gather, interact, and build community. Coined by urban sociologist Ray Oldenburg, these public places provide neutral ground for spontaneous conversation and connection, fostering a sense of belonging and supporting civic engagement.

I didn’t expect it to come full circle like this… We’re building this with the community and figuring it out together. Your feedback would mean a lot 🌻 Drop “Melaa” in the comments to join our waitlist 💛 PS: If you frequently organize events or gatherings, DM or email me, no matter what city you’re in. . . . . . . . . . #thirdspace #thirdspaces #community #eventplannerlife #bestvenuesnyc #bestvenueslondon Best venue rentals, community organizer, start up, founder, VC Sikh Punjabi coffee shop