Unfamiliar Neighbours: Re-Thinking Residential Buildings for Meaningful Social Interaction

Loneliness and social isolation are becoming a widespread problem in Canada today. Researchers have found that chronic loneliness can have similar consequences as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Yet, building regulations do little to assure mental wellbeing to the extent they regulate physical health. Centuries ago, people who lived around us would be our source of community. However, in the last 35 years the number of Canadians living alone has more than doubled, and most don't know many of their neighbours. The current multi-unit high-rise residential building model leaves little room to meet and get to know people, ultimately forming a sense of community, security and belonging. This thesis focuses on these buildings, with their narrow hallways and awkward elevator rides. The aim is to propose an alternative which creates more socially conducive spaces through public-private gradation, proximity to common areas, attracting motivated residents, grouping, program, and exposure to nature.