You should find your ‘third space’ – here’s how

Most people tend to spend their time in 2 main spaces: home and either work or school. When we’re elsewhere – like at the park, a coffee shop or the library – we are in a ‘third space’.

‘Third space’ was coined by American sociologist Ray Oldenburg in the 1980s to describe locations that offer a place for informal connection. According to Oldenburg, these spaces are vital for community and democracy. Recently, with cost-of-living pressures biting, many of us are actively seeking communal spaces that enhance our lifestyle without stretching our budget.

Contact sat down with Associate Professor Stephanie Wyeth from UQ's School of Architecture, Design and Planning to understand the importance of third spaces and how we can find our own – especially with added cost-of-living pressures.

Why are third spaces important?

Third spaces are critical to living a good life and creating successful communities. They help build social connections and reduce the risk of loneliness and social isolation.

I was struck by the 2023 US Surgeon General's report, which found that the health impacts of chronic social disconnection can be comparable to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. That raises an important question: how can our cities and communities better support opportunities for everyday connection?

Research consistently shows that people with strong social relationships report better physical and mental health, greater wellbeing and higher levels of life satisfaction. Communities with social ties are also often more resilient, more self-reliant and better able to respond to challenges. Social connection is not simply a personal benefit. It's an asset for communities and local economies.

Have digital technologies and social media affected the way we use third spaces?

Absolutely. The way we move through and engage with our suburbs, towns and cities has changed significantly.

We used to spend more time interacting with the people around us, chatting on the train, speaking with shop owners or striking up conversations at local events. Today, many of us are more likely to be looking at our phones than talking to the people beside us.

At the same time, digital technologies can also strengthen third spaces. Social media makes it easier to discover local events, find communities built around shared interests and connect with people we might never otherwise meet. People are increasingly willing to travel across town for a book club, maker session, live music venue or community event they discovered online.

The challenge is to use technology as a bridge to real-world connection rather than a substitute for it.

What should people look for when trying to find their own third space?

Look for places that are welcoming, inclusive and easy to access. A good third space is somewhere you feel comfortable turning up regularly, whether that's to participate, volunteer, learn something new or simply spend time around other people.

The best third spaces don't require you to spend a lot of money or have specialist knowledge. They create opportunities for people to belong, contribute and connect.

What are some affordable or free examples of third spaces that people might overlook?

Dog parks, libraries, council art galleries, community centres, community gardens, bushcare groups and repair cafés all offer opportunities to meet people and build local connections.

For me, it's the local café that hosts a monthly book club, the neighbourhood bar that supports live music and open-mic nights, the museum running Devonshire tea events for history enthusiasts or the creative workspace where artists and makers collaborate.

For others, it might be a gym, a walking group, a community choir or the café at the end of a favourite cycling route. The key is finding a place that aligns with your interests and encourages regular interaction with others.

If there isn’t a third space that suits you, why not create one? Local venues and community spaces may be looking to expand and diversify their program.

How can cities and communities better support the development of third spaces, especially outside the CBD and inner suburbs?

The challenges facing suburban retail centres may actually present an opportunity.

Vacant shops that could be repurposed as affordable community, cultural or creative spaces. Programs that support temporary and pop-up uses can help bring life back to these centres while creating opportunities for social connection.

There are already promising examples. Brisbane's pop-up initiatives for retail startups and the City of Newcastle's long-term commitment to affordable creative spaces show how local governments can support vibrant community life beyond traditional commercial uses.

Partnerships between government, local businesses, chambers of commerce and community organisations will be crucial in creating and sustaining these spaces. Investing in third places is ultimately an investment in community wellbeing, resilience and local identity.