Windows on the Future are thematic lenses through which we can look into the future to start regenerating remote places into more liveable environments. Discover more about it.
Impact Analysis – Sustainable Living
In the Window on the Future for Sustainable Living, partners work alongside local communities to develop “creative solutions for sustainable living, emerging economic ecosystems, and alternative business models.” The projects include co-designing a recreation zone in Bobrek (Poland), co-creating interventions to preserve the natural beauty of Apano Meria in Syros (Greece), and promoting green mobility in Oberzeiring (Austria) and the Dorlay Valley (France).
The primary impacts identified within the Sustainable Living focus are:
- Improved physical connections
- Enhanced appreciation for the natural environment and green spaces, including the creation of sustainable plans for the area
Partners involved in these projects include UAEGEAN (Apano Meria, Syros, Greece), CITÉ DU DESIGN (Dorlay Valley, France), FHJ (Oberzeiring, Austria), and ZAMEK (Bobrek, Poland).
Improving Physical Connections
The goal of strengthening physical connections within communities was achieved through innovative mobility solutions:
- Oberzeiring, Austria: A ride-sharing bench was installed to help address limited public transportation options, allowing local residents—especially those without cars—to share rides to important destinations.
- Dorlay Valley, France: An old railway was revitalizedinto a route for cycling and walking, celebrating the area’s industrial heritage.
Across the various project areas, these mobility solutions improved over 560 kilometers of transport routes for walking, cycling, bus, train, and car. Cité du Design also engaged 130 participants in events that introduced educational and creative signage along the routes, enhancing the visibility and appeal of these pathways.
Market Square, Oberzeiring, Austria – FHJ. In 2023, FHJ Design Master’s students designed a ride-sharing bench installed to improved the mobility in the local community.
Old path “La Galoche”, Dorlay Valley, France – CITE DU DESIGN. In 2023, CITE DU DESIGN designed a green mobility project around the industrial heritage of the Dorlay Valley’s textile industry inspired by the old “Galoche” train line. A cycle and pedestrian path that could be used by both inhabitants and tourists.
Increased Appreciation of Green Spaces
Projects focused on deepening the connection between communities and their natural environments, turning neglected areas into inviting spaces for social and recreational use:
- Bobrek, Poland: ZAMEK’s work focused on creating a vibrant recreation zone using Jan Gehl’s observation principles. By installing benches, tables, and urban furniture, the space became more inviting for all community members, especially women, children, and families. Observations revealed increased use, with more people choosing to walk, sit, and socialize in the area, though certain spaces remain underutilized, offering opportunities for future development.
- Syros, Greece: UAEGEAN implemented both physical improvements and educational initiatives, such as an information board at a transformed bus stop. This board encouraged visitors to learn about the local flora and fauna and share their observations via QR codes on social media, extending the educational reach. This initiative strengthened participants’ connection to the natural environment, fostering a sense of environmental stewardship.
Creating Sustainable Community Actions
Alongside physical enhancements, the projects promoted environmentally conscious actions to ensure the sustainability of local public spaces:
- Bobrek, Poland: In collaboration with the community, ZAMEK co-created a sustainable development plan for the recreation zone, balancing environmental preservation with community needs.
- Community Clean-Up 2024: Residents in Bobrek led a clean-up campaign, gathering 340 grams of rubbish to help maintain the area’s beauty, reflecting a proactive approach to environmental care and community involvement.
Recreation Area, Bobrek, Poland – ZAMEK. In 2023, ZAMEK, in association with local youth of Bobrek and the help of the town of Cieszyn in the form of a civic budget and Pronobis Studio, created a local sustainable plan for a recreation area in Bobrek.
Overall Impact
The SMOTIES initiative has demonstrated the effectiveness of collaborative projects in enhancing well-being through sustainable infrastructure, increased local engagement, and greener, more enjoyable spaces. These projects have strengthened community connections, deepened appreciation for natural surroundings, and encouraged environmentally mindful practices. Through these diverse efforts, SMOTIES has fostered not only physical improvements but also a shared sense of responsibility and pride in each community’s unique natural heritage.