A pleasant liveliness or a cold co-existence? Exploring encounters, spatial dynamics, and belonging in De Saffier: A case study of social mixing in a residential complex in Utrecht

Abstract

This master’s thesis explores how building-scale social mixing works in practice. It focuses on De Saffier, a residential project in Utrecht where young adults and elderly people live together. The project is part of a broader policy trend known as ‘Magic Mix’, which aims to foster social cohesion by housing different social groups under one roof. Through interviews and participatory mapping, the research examines where and how residents encounter one another, and how these encounters shape their sense of belonging. The study distinguishes between fleeting and in-depth encounters and analyses their role in building bonding and bridging social capital. Findings show that shared spaces, like a café, a hallway, and an activity room, are key sites for encounters between residents of a building-scale social mixing project. These spaces can promote inclusion, but their success depends on spatial design and resident initiative. Some areas support mostly intra-group encounters, while others enable inter-group encounters between residents. The thesis contributes to debates on urban inclusion by showing how building-scale social mixing can foster belonging, if supported by thoughtful design and active participation.