ARCHITECTURE AND SOCIAL WELFARE

The meaning of well-being
Architecture has the power to influence how people live and interact within a community. The impact of building extends beyond physical structures, affecting the balance between people and places, habits, and the sense of belonging and recognition within a collective. This extraordinary power, which has been utilized for various purposes across civilizations—such as celebrating higher orders, religious or military purposes, and contemplation—stems from the inseparable connection between humans and architecture, between communities and architecture. This relationship enables individuals to project themselves onto and to establish with built spaces highly complex interactions.
The structure of the built environment shapes communal living, as spatial modifications lead to changes in habits and behaviours. Architecture can thus serve as a tool for social innovation. Social challenges such as loneliness, inequality, and public health can be addressed through a deep understanding of human-centered processes.
The concept of well-being encompasses a variety of factors in our daily lives: safety, health, freedom, justice, culture, education, and work. It translates into a general condition where the benefits of society are equitably distributed among its members. Ensuring access to fundamental services is a crucial step toward creating a more equitable society, fostering inclusion, and improving the quality of life for all. Quality of life is profoundly influenced by these factors, which help cultivate a sense of belonging and security, forming the foundation for social solidarity, cohesion, and integration.

First, we must clarify what is meant by social well-being. When discussing well-being, it is often divided into two main areas: physical and psychological well-being, related to the health of the body and mind, and economic well-being, which concerns the financial stability necessary for daily life. However, there is a broader dimension that deserves attention: social well-being. Social well-being is essential for ensuring a harmonious and fulfilling life. It refers to the quality of relationships and interactions that characterize community life, shaped by interconnected economic, social, and environmental factors. Moreover, it includes subjective well-being, which pertains to individual perceptions of emotional balance and social experiences, contributing to overall quality of life.