The Rule
of Thirds How Can Interior Design Strengthen Communities Through Third Space Theory?
An Exploration Of The Gen-Z Loneliness Epidemic
Elise Jensen Hall 01.23.24 Interior Design Capstone Dr. Vahid Vahdat
Table of Contents We’re In A Communal Disconnect
1
Just How Lonely Are We?
3
So Where Did They All Go?
5
A Move From Digital to Physical
7
Survey Says...
9
The Power of Three
13
Sources
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We’re In A Communal Disconnect The loneliness epidemic among Generation Z, born roughly between the mid1990s and early 2010s, is a pressing social concern. Despite being the most digitally connected generation, Gen Z faces unique challenges in forming meaningful connections. Social media, while providing virtual connectivity, paradoxically contributes to a sense of isolation. Pressure to conform to online ideals and the “fear of missing out” can exacerbate feelings of loneliness. Additionally, the fast-paced, competitive nature of the modern world can hinder genuine face-to-face interactions. Factors such as increased screen time, academic stress, and societal expectations contribute to a generation that often experiences loneliness in the midst of virtual interconnectedness. Addressing the Gen Z loneliness epidemic requires fostering authentic relationships, promoting personal well-being, and creating inclusive physical spaces that prioritize genuine human connection. 1
Third space theory, emphasizing the importance of informal, inclusive environments beyond home and work, can address the Gen Z loneliness epidemic. Creating communal spaces that bridge online and offline interactions can foster authentic connections. Places like community centers, coworking spaces, or digital platforms designed for meaningful dialogue provide opportunities for diverse social engagement. By integrating these third spaces into daily life, Gen Z can find avenues for genuine connection, breaking the isolation fostered by digital communication. Implementing third space principles encourages a sense of belonging, mitigates loneliness, and promotes a healthier, more connected experience for this generation.
The Home
Work or School
The Third Spaces
Third space theory, developed by sociologist Ray Oldenburg, explores the social significance of informal gathering places beyond the realms of home (first space) and work (second space). These "third places" are characterized by their accessibility, inclusivity, and the fostering of community bonds. Examples can include cafes, parks, bookstores, or community centers. Third spaces are neutral ground, facilitating spontaneous interactions and social connections among diverse individuals. They play a vital role in enhancing social cohesion, providing a relaxed environment for conversations, and fostering a sense of belonging. By emphasizing the importance of these informal settings, the third space theory recognizes the contribution to community building, social engagement, and the overall well-being of individuals in society. 2
Just How Lonely Are We? In 2000, American teenagers spent an average of 2.75 days a week hanging out with their friends. By 2019, American teenagers spent an average of 1.75 days a week with friends. Research cited that teenagers reported that they didn’t feel as if they had enough safe and accessible places to go to.
American teenagers in 2019 spent 36% less time with friends compared to American Teenagers in 2000.
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38% of American Gen Z reported feeling “lonely” in 2023. Gen Z has faced intensified loneliness during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Lockdowns and social distancing measures disrupted traditional avenues for socialization, such as school and social events, which perpetuated feelings of isolation. While essential for communication, reliance on digital communication often leads to screen fatigue and a sense of disconnection. Academic stress and uncertainty about the future added to their emotional burden. Post-pandemic, the gradual return to normalcy poses challenges as social skills may need rekindling. The shift in social dynamics has heightened the need for meaningful connections, emphasizing the importance of addressing the mental health impact and fostering environments that counteract the loneliness experienced by Gen Z.
70% Of American Gen Z reported feeling “constantly isolated” during COVID-19 lockdowns. 4
So Where Did They All Go?
Social media profoundly influences the Gen Z loneliness epidemic by shaping perceptions of connection. While providing a platform for virtual interaction, it often accentuates curated representations of others' lives, fostering a sense of personal inadequacy and social comparison. The constant pursuit of online validation can lead to feelings of isolation. Moreover, digital landscapes promote superficial interactions, replacing genuine connections. The pressure to conform to online norms and portray an aspirational identity can hinder authenticity and meaningful engagement. As Gen Z navigates a digitally saturated culture, it becomes essential to encourage environments that promote genuine connections, fostering a sense of community to mitigate the loneliness that the virtual realm can perpetuate. 5
73% Of American Gen Z spends more than half of their time online. Gen Z's phone addiction is a significant concern, impacting mental health and overall well-being. Constant connectivity fosters a culture of instant gratification and fear of missing out (FOMO), contributing to heightened stress. Excessive screen time has been linked to anxiety and depression among Gen Z. Additionally, the blurring of lines between online and offline life raises concerns about genuine social interactions. Addressing phone addiction is crucial for promoting a healthier balance and ensuring the well-being of this generation as they navigate the challenges of the digital age.
1 in 3 American teenagers admitted to feeling addicted to their phones. 6
A Move From Digital to Physical Social media offers virtual connections, but is not a direct replacement for physical third spaces. While it facilitates digital interactions, it lacks the spontaneity, face-to-face engagement, and informal atmosphere characteristic of physical third spaces such as cafes or community centers. Social media may contribute to a sense of connectivity, but it cannot fully replace the tangible, inclusive environments that foster genuine relationships and mitigate loneliness in physical third spaces. 7
Physical isolation has been found to have the same increased-mortality rate as smoking 15 cigarettes per day. Physical interaction is crucial for Gen Z's well-being, offering benefits that extend beyond the digital realm. Face-to-face connections provide a sense of authenticity and emotional depth, promoting genuine understanding. In-person interactions enhance communication skills, foster empathy, and build stronger relationships. Real-world experiences contribute to personal growth and a more nuanced understanding of diverse perspectives. Physical engagement also reduces feelings of isolation and loneliness, promoting a sense of community and belonging essential for the overall mental health and social development of Gen Z individuals.
Across 20 psychological studies published from 2017 to 2023, every single study concluded that individuals with more in-person social interactions are happier, live longer, and feel a greater sense of belonging. 8
Survey Says... 48 people from my hometown of Everett, Washington, were asked for their opinions on how new developments in the city were benefiting the local economy, how satisfied they felt with their “third space” in the city, and how they believed that non-locals viewed the city’s “third spaces.” As the population and GDP of the Greater Seattle Area have continued to grow, surrounding cities, including Everett, have made efforts to accommodate both current and projected trends in tourism and urban sprawl. Do locals believe that the city’s third spaces have the potential to bring people into Everett, and what third space typologies do locals want to see more of? “What was old will become new again. After years of big-box stores, large lot development, and seas of supermarkets— residents today want to know who grows the food they eat, they choose to shop small, supporting local retailers over national chains, and 10,000 sq. foot single family lots will be passed over for residential flats in adaptively reused historic spaces. Our next generation of thought leaders will continue the urban renaissance occurring throughout the country.” — Mayor Cassie Franklin, Everett, WA
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Everett locals were found to identify Coffee Shops, Restaurants, Public Parks, and Shopping Centers / Malls as the most common “third places” that they currently visit. Museums and/or art galleries were currently the least popular option for a “third space.”
Where People Currently Go (#) Restaurants Bars Coffee Shops Libraries Public Parks Museums / Art Galleries Shopping Centers / Malls Gyms 0
10
20
30
40
Affordability Distance Familiarity & Safety
Were the four most common traits that people in Everett looked for when identifying what they valued in a “third space” followed by Excitement, Community, Accessibility, Inclusivity, and Curiosity, respectivly. 10
Estimated Desirability to Locals (%)
Estimated Desirability to Non-Locals
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
Undesirable Somewhat Undesirable
Neutral
Somewhat Desirable
Desirable
Participants were asked to rate their feelings on a scale of “Undesirable” to “Desirable” to better understand attitudes about Everett’s third spaces. Local attitudes leaned more desirable, while projected non-local attitudes leaned less desirable. The Mayoral Directive 2023-05 outlines the City of Everett's response to various challenges, emphasizing resilience amid a structural budget deficit, the COVID-19 pandemic, housing and behavioral health crises, and high inflation. Acknowledging the importance of local businesses, the directive focuses on initiatives to enhance Everett's reputation for businesses, attract new companies, and foster economic growth. Infrastructure projects, including bridge replacements and collaborations with transportation authorities, aim to make the community more connected. The directive also highlights plans for a stadium, amphitheater, and park to boost tourism. Strategies include accessing grant funding, advocating for revenue changes, and expanding recreational and cultural offerings, particularly in underserved areas. The directive aims to position Everett for a prosperous future by addressing challenges and embracing innovative opportunities. 11
What types of “third spaces” do Everett locals want to see more of in the city? What People Want to See More Of (#) Restaurants Bars Coffee Shops Libraries Public Parks Museums / Art Galleries Shopping Centers / Malls Gyms 0
5
10
15
20
25
30
Everett locals reported wanting to see more Restaurants, Museums and/or Art Galleries, Shopping Centers / Malls, and Coffee Shops in the city. Museums, being tied with Restaurants for the most requested, were previously voted as the least popular “third space” that Everett locals go to in their free time. The main takeaway from these results is that Everett locals want to see more third places in the city that will bring in both local and non-local consumers, with room to hypothesize that people in the city want to see more support for the arts, for small businesses, and for opportunities for Everett’s economy and tourism to grow. So how can Everett, Washington, fulfill its desire to attract tourists and grow its economy through investing in the addition of third spaces? What is required for Real Estate Developers, Architects, and Designers to understand Everett’s visual and cultural identity, and how can these understandings be used to foster an aesthetic within these spaces that enhances the city’s sense of place? 12
The Power of Three By studying Third Space Theory, we can better understand the relationship that physical space has on the people in our communities. By researching a community’s demographics, wants, and needs, we can more adequately design these Third Spaces in a way that will attract target audiences. In an age of high digital connection but low physical connection, we have seen the consequences that a lack of face-to-face interactions can have at both the psychological and the sociological levels. When people have a place to go outside of their homes, school, and/or work, they are, in turn, able to contribute to the local economy, continue to foster local culture, and participate in the evolution of a community’s social and visual identity.
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