Shared Space

Shared Space uses science and storytelling to reveal the power of architecture and design to make us healthier, happier, and more connected.

Erin Peavey Erin Peavey

Human Scale: How Architecture Can Provide Comfort

Digging into one of six attributes to create environments of connection - Human Scale - I interview Thom Grieving of HKS about his team's work that exemplifies what design with human scale can look like at University of California at San Diego. They thoughtfully embedded considerations around social health and social connection, considering community health and wellness as key aims.

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Erin Peavey Erin Peavey

How Architecture Can Foster Inclusion - with Maya Bird-Murphy

In this episode, Maya and I explore how the built environment can foster justice, equity, diversity and inclusion – how often it’s purposefully designed to exclude and how we can change that. Maya’s journey to create Chicago Mobile Makers started off with two questions - 1. How can we diversity the design profession? 2. How can we improve disinvested communities? And, can those two things happen simultaneously? As her and her colleagues at Chicago Mobile Makers look to this next school semester in the face of COVID-19, the mobile maker has some very special things in store that are uniquely positioned to benefit Chicago area youth. If you want to learn more about here or her work please check out the links below to her website, Chicago Mobile Maker’s Website and their recent feature in Dwell Magazine.

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Erin Peavey Erin Peavey

Accessibility: Creating Places That are Safe, Inclusive, and Walkable

We discuss the importance of designing accessible and inclusive places of connection. When we use universal design principles that honor the human experience, we are creating more inclusive, equitable and welcoming places for all people. I share an example from my own practice working with clients to create spaces that are accessible for the people they serve, like the new clinic at Parkland Hospital.

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Erin Peavey Erin Peavey

The Psychology of Places of Connection - Colin Ellard, PhD [Part 2]

I speak with acclaimed author, researcher, TEDx speaker, and professor of environmental psychology, Dr. Colin Ellard.

Part 2: On the second half of our two-part episode, Colin and I explore research around what small tweaks can shape how we evaluate and want to connect with others, difference between what people think will make them happy and what they want, vs. what actually makes us happy in our home environments, and lastly he leaves us with what he hopes we consider in design and beyond.

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Erin Peavey Erin Peavey

Third Places: How Shared Spaces Can Connect

This excerpt explores the concept of "third places," those informal public spaces distinct from home and work where people gather, socialize, and build connections. Sociologist Ray Oldenburg identified these spaces as crucial for fostering social capital, well-being, and a sense of community.

From ancient sites like Stonehenge to modern coffee shops, third places provide opportunities for relaxation, play, and casual interaction. Research suggests they offer emotional support, combat loneliness, and even bolster recovery from mental illness.

Unfortunately, the very fabric of these community spaces is threatened by closures. The report argues for the importance of advocating for and designing these spaces, both physically and virtually, to strengthen social connection and combat modern-day isolation.

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Erin Peavey Erin Peavey

Is Your City’s Design Making You Lonely?

A 2020 Cigna survey showed that more than three in five working American adults are lonely, and rising numbers report feeling left out, is understood or as though they lack companionship. These findings contribute to the sense that we are facing a “loneliness epidemic,” as described by former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy. Loneliness and social isolation have been linked to sleep loss, ill health, dementia, premature death, and even heartbreak—literally.

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Erin Peavey Erin Peavey

How Loneliness Impacts Our Health

A 2020 Cigna survey showed that more than three in five working American adults are lonely, and rising numbers report feeling left out, is understood or as though they lack companionship. These findings contribute to the sense that we are facing a “loneliness epidemic,” as described by former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy. Loneliness and social isolation have been linked to sleep loss, ill health, dementia, premature death, and even heartbreak—literally.

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Erin Peavey Erin Peavey

Introduction to Shared Space

We understand the deleterious effects of loneliness and social isolation, and this podcast will lean into those, while also exploring how physical spaces can make us feel more connected and less lonely. We share research-informed guidelines on how to use space to foster connection, social health and well-being. And we will be sharing examples of spaces and strategies that work!

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Meet the Team

  • Erin K. Peavey

    PODCAST HOST

    Erin is the host of Shared Space. She is an award-winning architect, researcher, writer, explorer, and activist. Erin started Shared Space to create a place to hear the voices and stories behind how our spaces and places shape our live, work, love, and connections.

  • Arnila Nolok

    AUDIO PRODUCER (SEASON 2)

    Arnila is a passionate storyteller and actor, graduated from the University of North Texas with a Master of Fine Arts degree. Her contributions have made additional seasons possible, she is a wonderful collaborator and storyteller.

  • Leanne Doore

    GRAPHIC DESIGNER (SEASON 2)

    Leanne is passionate about design and making awesome things, whether it’s an interactive experience, printed media, or artwork. We are lucky enough to have her assist with her wicked graphic design skills.