A new community space is taking shape at the Faculty of Social Sciences of Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE TáTK), designed to support not only recreation but also shared thinking, creativity, and collaboration.

Closely linked to the renewal of the space is an innovative initiative launched by students of the Human Ecology MA program: a community-based urban farming project that brings together sustainability, environmental awareness, and community building. The project, titled TERRACE LIFE, aims to transform the currently approximately 250-square-meter terrace area—made up of two L-shaped terraces—into a vibrant, green, multifunctional space. The vision is to create a living “university urban garden” shaped jointly by students, faculty members, and staff.

What makes the initiative particularly distinctive is its participatory approach. Rather than following a top-down design concept, the planning process actively involves the Faculty community. As a first step, an online survey invites everyone to share their ideas about what the future terrace should look like. Based on the feedback received, collective brainstorming sessions, community planting days, and hands-on space-shaping events may follow.

The future functions of the terrace go far beyond those of a traditional outdoor lounge area. The space is envisioned as a venue for shared meals, student- and faculty-led events, and even outdoor classes. Elements of urban farming—including edible plants, herbs, and pollinator-friendly green areas—will offer not only aesthetic value but also educational and ecological benefits.

The project has now entered its next phase: mapping community needs. Questionnaires distributed via Neptun and e-mail give students and staff the opportunity to contribute their ideas and feedback, helping to shape a truly shared, green, and inspiring space at ELTE TáTK.

In addition, the organizers warmly invite all interested members of the community to attend an in-person forum on April 22, 2026 (Earth Day). Participants will have the opportunity to visit the terraces, followed by a discussion held in the Zsuzsa Ferge Faculty Council Chamber (ground floor, room 0.100C). The forum will begin at 2:00 PM.