What Are Third Spaces & Why Do We Need More Of Them?

In a world that often pulls us between home and work, third spaces offer something essential: connection. Coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg, third spaces are informal public places where people gather—not to work or live, but to be in community.

Think: cafés, libraries, parks, community centres, barber shops—spaces that are low-cost, low-barrier, and built for conversation. They’re often free to access, welcoming to all ages, and not tied to institutional rules or expectations. Oldenburg described them as “the heart of a community’s social vitality.”

Third spaces are especially important in community development. They build trust, foster belonging, and create opportunities for shared leadership. They’re where people meet across difference and form relationships outside of their usual circles. In rural and underserved communities, they can help reduce isolation, spark dialogue, and build the kinds of connections that lead to long-term resilience.

Research backs this up. A 2009 study by Jeffres et al. found that communities with strong third places report greater civic engagement and higher quality of life. These spaces support mental health, collaboration, and even local economies.

But here’s the thing: third spaces don’t just happen. They need care, intention, and investment. Whether it's through public policy, grassroots programming, or simply how we welcome people into a room, we all have a role in creating spaces where connection grows.

So let’s not just build services. Let’s build spaces that spark joy, cultivate belonging, and make community feel like home.