“Build It and They Will Stay”: Assessing the Social Impact of Self-Build Practices in Urban Regeneration

Abstract: Urban regeneration (UR) is a multidimensional approach aimed at improving urban environments through sustainable and inclusive practices. This study examined the social impacts of a self-build architectural intervention conducted within a university campus in Cagliari, Italy. As part of broader UR strategies, the intervention introduced temporary physical transformations to three distinct sites, prioritizing community involvement and multidisciplinary collaboration. Behavioral observations were used as the primary method to capture pre- and post-intervention dynamics, focusing on variables such as sociality, dynamism, and restorative behaviors. The results indicated significant increases in social activities, restorative behaviors, and inclusivity, particularly at Site C, where improvements to design elements, such as added shading and movable seating, enhanced engagement and comfort. The intervention also led to a notable rise in the presence of observer-rated females, highlighting the potential of gender-sensitive design to promote equitable use of public spaces. However, a slight, non-significant decline in reading and studying activities was observed, raising questions about how to balance social and individual needs within shared environments. Despite limitations, including the specificity of the context and the short duration of data collection, this study underscored the transformative potential of targeted UR interventions to enhance social connection, individual well-being, and inclusivity in urban spaces.