Designed Living Environment – A Society That Sticks Together

ArkDes annually releases a report assessing the progress of the Policy for Designed Living Environment, this year themed ‘A Society That Sticks Together.’

Commissioned by the Swedish Ministry of Culture, the report builds on the Policy for Designed Living Environment, founded on the belief in the transformative power of design. It highlights how deliberate work with architecture, design, art, and cultural heritage can strengthen cohesion and reduce inequality in society.

In 2023, the policy celebrates its fifth anniversary. The report reflects on five dynamic years, featuring insights from experts and offering actionable recommendations for the future. Under this year’s theme, ‘A Society That Sticks Together,’ it explores equality and segregation, emphasizing the central role of architecture, design, art, and cultural heritage in creating meaningful places for everyone.

Building a society that sticks together requires engaging citizens in what is designed, built, and maintained. The report includes a survey by Sifo, capturing public priorities for their local environments. It also showcases innovative approaches by public and private actors who are developing shared spaces and involving citizens in the process.

On March 9, 2023, the report was presented during a digital breakfast seminar. Together with experts in the field, ArkDes discussed the policy’s successes and challenges while offering concrete insights and recommendations for the future.