The Emergence of Children's Spatial Agency in Home Design

Abstract

This study advocates for the emergence of children’s participation as stakeholders in home and neighbourhood design, emphasizing the need for architects to recognize their voices in shaping inclusive and adaptive environments. Despite being primary users of these spaces, children are often overlooked as active participants in the design process. While architects play a critical role in redefining residential spaces, children’s perspectives are often excluded, resulting in environments that inadequately address their needs. Through a participatory workshop, this research engaged eight children aged 4–11 from a single neighbourhood in Dunedin, New Zealand, to explore their spatial preferences and assess whether current homes and neighbourhoods accommodate to their envisioned ideal spaces. Using creative tools like drawing and conversation, the study revealed key insights. Children’s favourite spaces highlighted the importance of action affordances, material culture, sensory engagement with nature, and the balance between safety and autonomy. Participants emphasized spaces that combine functionality, play, and emotional comfort, moving beyond the structured, adult-centric designs prevalent in architectural practice. Notably, their preferences shifted towards natural elements in the absence of material objects, underscoring the importance of sensory and exploratory environments. The findings challenge traditional design paradigms, advocating for participatory approaches where children’s perspectives inform housing and neighbourhood design. By integrating children’s insights, architects can develop environments that are adaptable, interactive, and supportive of their growth and well-being. This research underscores the potential of child-inclusive design in promoting inclusive, sustainable, and child-friendly homes and neighbourhoods, aligning with broader goals of participatory and equitable development in urban planning.