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How common is public space? The evolution of urban design through the lens of gender: The case of Vienna

Channidis Kyriakos

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Summary

This thesis explores the interaction between gender and public space, focusing on how social and gender-based inequalities are reflected and reproduced through urban planning. It begins by examining gender as a social construct and analyzes public space not as a neutral backdrop, but as a dynamic field where inequalities, power relations, and exclusions are inscribed. Emphasizing the different spatial experiences of women compared to men, the research highlights how urban design has historically been shaped by androcentric perceptions and priorities, embedding asymmetries in accessibility, safety, and the sense of belonging. The case of Vienna is then analyzed as a pioneering example of the gradual integration of gender-sensitive parameters into urban planning. Specifically, three case studies (Karlsplatz, Einsiedlerpark, Aspern Seestadt) are selected, each representing distinct stages in this progression. Their selection is based on their differing urban scales and the evolving way in which gender considerations are incorporated—from small-scale interventions to a gender-aware urban design framework from the outset. Through this evolutionary analysis, the study demonstrates how spatial design can become a tool for inclusion, empowerment, and social equity. Ultimately, it aims to contribute to this ongoing discourse by positioning gender not as an additional design factor, but as a fundamental axis for creating fair and equitable cities.

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