As a result of strict homogeneity and the shame culture in Japan, there comes a point where people disconnect and self alienate. This project aims to address these taboo conversations, and to argue that individuality and authenticity can create new, healthy, and sustainable forms of community.

I express my deepest gratitude for all of those who supported me throughout the course of this research and the final design. Thank you to my advisor, Michael Leube, whose positive energy and feedback were invaluable to my project. I also wish to thank my friends, family, and my sisters Paulina and Carolina, for their unconditional and constant support at every moment. Lastly, I am immensely grateful for all of the individuals who shared their experiences and insights with me, especially Sayu Fujii, my mentor in Tokyo during my months there, who helped me with translations and ensuring that this project is authentic and true to Japanese culture.

During my semester abroad in New York City, I struggled with loneliness, feeling isolated despite the bustling environment, sparking reflections on how urban spaces, diminished third spaces, and personal connections shape our emotional well-being and experiences of community.