Existential and social issues in contemporary architecture: ways to overcome loneliness and social isolation

To this day, the problem of loneliness and social isolation in urban environments has become particularly acute in the context of changing lifestyles, digitalization, and the loss of traditional forms of neighborhood communication. Urbanization, digitalization, uniform development, and a lack of quality public spaces significantly reduce opportunities for establishing and maintaining social connections. In this regard, the subject of research is the influence of architecture on the level of loneliness and social isolation. The aim of this article is to analyze the relationship between the architectural environment and social isolation, followed by the development of recommendations for designing inclusive urban spaces. Considering architecture as a factor in social interactions, special attention is paid to the balance between private and public spaces, as well as the principles of inclusive design. The research methodology is based on the sequential application of elements of the historical approach, historical and art criticism analysis, hermeneutic method, comparative analysis methods, theoretical synthesis, case method (analysis of specific architectural solutions and urban planning practices), as well as visual analysis of certain public spaces and design solutions that influence social engagement. The novelty of the research lies in the author's approach, through which: 1) architecture is considered a socio-existential tool that affects the quality of human interactions in the urban environment; 2) definitions of "loneliness" and "social isolation" are provided; 3) the understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of architecture is generalized and expanded, connecting philosophical, sociological, art criticism, and design approaches to the urban environment. The theoretical foundation of the article can be used for further research in the field of social urbanism. The practical significance of the research lies in the proposed author's recommendations, which can be applied in the development of urban environment projects, residential complexes, and public spaces, as well as in educational activities for training specialists in the field of architecture and urban planning. It is noted that the spatial solutions made today define not only the visual appearance of the environment but also the quality of life, the degree of participation, solidarity, and the sense of belonging of individuals to society. Since architecture significantly influences the formation of the socio-spatial fabric of the city, it should account for the needs of all population groups in the future, ensuring accessibility, safety, and variability of space usage.

architecture, urbanization, loneliness, social isolation, technosocial reality, inclusive space, engagement, interaction, communication, digitalization