Empowering Urban Community: A Participatory Approach to Public Space Design in Bangkok

Abstract

This article aims to examine the important role of community involvement in improving community public spaces through a case study of the Ruam Phatthana Chueaphloeng Song community, which is a slum community in the heart of Bangkok that is facing socio-economic and urban infrastructure challenges. Therefore, the participation of villagers in the urban community design process has become an important strategy to promote sustainable community. The research methodology used consists of surveys, participant observation and design workshops to identify the needs of residents while also promoting participation in community improvement together. The findings reveal that community involvement not only instills a sense of ownership and responsibility among residents, but also directly influences the effectiveness of designs to improve community common spaces. The community has expressed a desire for a safe and productive public space for everyone and a space that fits their unique social context. Despite resource constraints and implementation challenges, this study has shown that participatory practices can strengthen social bonds and demonstrate the transformative potential of community engagement.