%0 Thesis
%9 Master
%A Kauffmann, T.J.
%D 2024
%F theses_frw:4602
%P 91
%T The family-friendly city: how to create more inclusive urban environments?
%U https://frw.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/4602/
%X In recent years, young families worldwide increasingly choose to live in cities. However, both planners’ and scholars’ knowledge of the ‘family-friendly city’ is limited. A better understanding of families’ needs and preferences in the urban environment is required to accommodate this growing population group. Therefore, this thesis investigates the spatial needs and preferences of urban families in the city of Groningen (the Netherlands) through the concept of affordances. The following research question is central: “How can the needs of young families in cities, with regard to housing and living environment, be afforded in a sustainable and inclusive way?”. Eight semi-structured interviews with parents or caregivers living within the ring road of the city of Groningen have been conducted to unravel their needs and preferences and perceptions of a ‘family-friendly city’. The main needs of urban families include proximity to facilities and diverse and affordable housing options with sufficient indoor space in a green and physically and socially safe environment, considering the whole city as a potential playground. These findings have formed the basis of a refined definition of the ‘family-friendly city’. Even though the city of Groningen is perceived as quite family-friendly, local issues regarding traffic safety, accessibility and health need to be addressed to keep the city liveable for families in the long run. This thesis advocates for a more inclusive approach to spatial planning to not only represent families’ and childrens’ needs in urban planning and design, but benefit all urban residents.