Reclaiming Urban Space through Cultural Initiatives: Adaptive Reuse and Community Engagement in Sonnenstein Loft and AUBERGiNE, Linz

This thesis evaluates the social and spatial and cultural influence of small-scale cultural facilities using an extensive analysis of the case study of Sonnenstein Loft and AUBERGiNE, two creative spaces coordinated by RedSapata in Linz, Austria. This study investigates how bottom-up, artist-led spaces function at the crossroad of urban transformation, social inclusion, and creative sustainability, although much existing research primarily examines large institutions and government-directed cultural planning yet. The research employs qualitative case study methods, using combination of semi-structured interviews, participant observations, document analysis, and an online survey to understand their dynamic ecosystem functions. Thematic analysis draws from both inductive insights and deductive theoretical frameworks including different theories. The outcomes reveal that Sonnenstein Loft and AUBERGiNE serve dual purposes, they play crucial roles not only in supporting freelance and migrant artists, but also in creating affective, collaborative, and informal infrastructures which oppose conventional top-down cultural governance models. These spaces foster sense of belonging, provide opportunities for peer learning, and offer inclusive platforms that use creativity and art as a tool to build community. This study identifies three main obstacles, including financial instability, emotional work demands, and challenges between artistic independence and official policy requirements. The conclusion section argues for a broader recognition of cultural micro-enterprises to receive official recognition as urban actors, because their invisible work deserves long-term and sustained support within cultural and urban development frameworks.