With more than ten years’ experience as an architect in Mexico before starting LUCSUS' international masters' programme in Environmental Studies and Sustainability Science (LUMES), the topic of city planning is very close to Carolina Sandoval Marmolejo’s heart. For Carolina and Sari, it is important to challenge the need for new houses and spaces, as their demand on land can lead to a reduction of green areas in a city.
– We are interested in how already existing buildings can become multifunctional and available to several groups and activities. This approach enables the preservation of more green spaces and parks here in Lund, says Carolina Sandoval Marmolejo, who is in her second year of LUMES.
She explains that a multifunctional building can be an office that is used as a dance space early morning or late evenings. Another example is a school gym that can be used for singing, or empty rooms for language lessons.
Using this “green densification” approach within planning could greatly reduce the need for completely new premises and can also support community building if different groups share the same space, she says.
– We need to start thinking differently about planning in order to foster community and to build a healthy green city, says Carolina Sandoval Marmolejo.
Sari Nomura, who is originally from Japan, explains that the event builds on a LUMES Knowledge to Action student project where they examined the potential of multifunctional buildings in Lund. For her it is important to involve citizens in Lund as they have first-hand knowledge of buildings or empty parking lots that could become multi-use spaces.
– This was a great opportunity to exchange ideas and learn more about what citizens need and want, says Sari Nomura.
Melissa García-Lamarca, associate senior lecturer at LUCSUS, supported Carolina and Sari during the workshop.
– To reduce carbon emissions in cities, we need to rethink how urban space is used and developed. Green densification also needs to consider who spaces are created for, to avoid green gentrification and ensure accessible and green cities for all residents, says Melissa García-Lamarca.
The event was part of Sustainability Week 2025. Sustainability week is an annual event in Lund organised as a joint venture by Lund University and Lund municipality. The week serves as a platform for bringing together ideas, cross-disciplinary collaborations, raising public awareness and for inspiring sustainable change.