As part of Placemaking Days Trenčín and the Public Forum “How Trust Grows”, we’re inviting 3–4 practitioners, artists, community organisers, researchers and local initiatives from the Placemaking Europe network to share a concrete story from their city, community or practice.
Public spaces can do more than bring people together once. A square, park, courtyard, market, cultural venue or community space can create the conditions for repeated encounters, relationships, belonging and eventually shared ownership. In the session “It takes a square to learn the name of your neighbour”, we’ll explore what makes this happen — and what we can learn from places where it already does.
We are looking for grounded stories, not polished presentations. Tell us about:
- A place that created opportunities for repeated encounters
- A cultural programme or community activity that helped people connect
- What made people return and become involved
- How residents became participants or stewards of a place
- What you learned about building stronger neighbourhood relationships
Selected contributors will give a 5–7 minute presentation, followed by a facilitated exchange with the audience.
When
2–4 November 2026 | Trenčín, Slovakia
Arrival and informal programme on 2 November, Public Forum on 3 November, and shared breakfast and morning programme on 4 November.
Support
Selected contributors will receive a €300 contribution towards participation and travel costs. Accommodation will be covered by the organisers.
How to apply
Interested in sharing your story?
Come and help us explore how strangers become neighbours — and how places help make that possible.
