Parisa Barani

Cross-Cultural Dialogue in Public Space

The public atmosphere, defining the collective mood and sensory experience within shared spaces, profoundly shapes individuals’ perceptions and interactions. A positive atmosphere fosters a sense of belonging, encouraging social cohesion and well-being. My degree project endeavours to enrich the public atmosphere in the Stockholm archipelago on Ljusterö Island by blending elements from my personal background in Persian architectural aesthetics with the Swedish cultural context to blur the boundaries between them in a public space and create inclusive environments that resonate with the local citizens of the island.

Drawing from architectural styles, cultural aesthetics, and social dynamics, I aim to transcend boundaries and foster connections within these spaces. By curating an environment that inspires unity and collaboration, I seek to facilitate meaningful interactions among individuals from different backgrounds, nurturing a sense of community and shared identity within a public setting.

Nowadays our communities are more diverse and multicultural than ever before. As we travel and relocate to different countries, we bring with us our backgrounds and life experiences while adapting to new unique cultures and societies. Even within our own cultural upbringing, there exists a variety of perspectives and backgrounds. Over time, societal boundaries and norms are becoming increasingly fluid. It’s essential to recognise that our similarities far outweigh our differences. It’s crucial to consider how diverse beliefs and personalities can coexist harmoniously in society and how this impacts public spaces.

When we get to know each other and communicate, we discover that there is no us and them; it’s only “we”. I believe that creating social meeting spaces committed to this purpose is the most effective approach in preventing societal polarisation and mitigating hostility and conflict.