In this co-design project, we wanted to better understand how leverage point theory could be applied to the social design field. We also wanted to develop an alternative perspective on and language for the different systemic levels design needs to tackle to contribute to societal impact and long-term …

Background and aim. To improve the indoor environmental quality (IEQ) in schools, the Dutch government issued a program of requirements (PoR) “Fresh Schools”. This study aims to determine the effect of adopting class A (high IEQ) or B (moderate IEQ) of this PoR on students’ comfort and performance. Requirements …

Background and Aim. Developing green campuses anticipates to contemporary environmental and health challenges by enhancing biodiversity with green spaces and promoting well-being through outdoor education and active pathways. Inspired by The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this paper highlights …

Facility management (FM) is pivotal in creating spaces and services that foster equitable and cohesive societies. A role that becomes even more critical as one in four adults in the European Union is disabled, with 52% experiencing discrimination (Eurostat, 2025). Despite the EU’s 2007 ratification of …

Background and Aim. Many patients experience anxiety during hospitalization. Hospital environments can support patients with the mitigation of anxiety. The aim of this study was to gain a better understanding of which design elements can affect sense of control, social support, and positive distraction, …

This article discusses variations in the experiences of Dutch identity and belonging to a music-making group in the Dutch migrant community in Melbourne, Australia. It answers the research question “Which variations of ‘Dutch identity’ are there for the participants and how does music-making relate to …

The healthcare sector ranks among the largest consumers of single-use plastics, generating substantial amounts of waste, an issue strikingly captured in Maria Koijck's breast surgery photography. To reduce the environmental impact, biobased and biodegradable polymers are promising alternatives to conventional …

In the face of increasingly complex societal challenges, the field of social design is being called upon to deepen its ability to create long-term, systemic impact. This project, conducted with five experienced social designers and one workshop in our ESConference in 2025, explored how systems thinking, …

Sustainable Ceramics: Shaping the FutureWhat will ceramics look like in 20, 50, or even 100 years? This engaging lecture explores the future of ceramics, where social and environmental responsibility take center stage.Ceramics production has a significant environmental footprint, but innovative artists, …

As youth workers increasingly offer support and guidance within digital environments, the question arises as to what impact this support has on the (online) lives of young people. This paper explores the contribution of youth work practice in the online lifeworld on young peoples’ development, building …