Objective  This research aims to investigate the significance of renewing rural public spaces as a tool for promoting the sustainable development of rural communities in China. Specifically, the research examines the challenges encountered in the process of renewal, the interdisciplinary approach required, and the potential outcomes for rural social, cultural and economic advancement.

Methods  The research is based on a twelve-year engagement in the construction of Macha Village, during which a professional design team led by the author immerses itself in understanding the complexity of rural communities and the dynamics of public spaces. Through a combination of design experimentation, participatory workshop and collaborative practice, the team gains in-depth insights into the renewal and development of rural public spaces.

Results  The findings reveal three key aspects of the renewal of rural public spaces. Firstly, renewing rural public spaces is not the ultimate goal but rather a means to foster rural social, cultural and economic development. Given the challenges posed by rapid urbanization, particularly in western rural areas of China, there is a pressing need to revitalize the self-organizational dynamics and capacities of rural communities. Rural public spaces serve as an tangible resource shared by all villagers, and the renewal thereof serves as an important catalyst to reignite and cultivate rural social self-organization and motivation. By providing inclusive spaces for social interaction, cultural activities and economic initiatives, rural public spaces contribute to the formation of a sense of community, belonging and collective well-being. Secondly, the process of renewing and operating rural public spaces holds greater significance than the physical outcomes. It is essential to move beyond the mere design and construction of physical spaces and incorporate the entire process from research and preparation to operation and utilization. For rural public spaces with the attributes of public service and activity, the support of sociological expertise becomes crucial in terms of community mobilization, appropriate guidance and follow-up assistance especially given the lack of self-organizational dynamics. Such collaborative approach can enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of rural public spaces, enabling them to meet the diverse needs and aspirations of local communities. Thirdly, the research emphasizes the necessity of in-depth interdisciplinary collaboration. The dual nature of public (social) and space (physical) attributes and the complexity of the factors and mechanisms involved in rural public spaces necessitate the integration of multiple disciplines. Breaking down the barriers between different teams, institutions and organizations and establishing sustainable collaborative mechanisms and working models are the key challenges that demand multidimensional exploration and responses. Such interdisciplinary collaboration can give birth to holistic and context-sensitive solutions taking into account the diverse characteristics and contexts of rural areas.

Conclusion  In conclusion, the renewal of rural public spaces acts as a catalyst for sustainable rural development, which can revitalizes the self-organizational dynamics and capacities of rural communities while addressing the challenges brought about by urbanization. This research highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach that encompasses the entire renewal process from research and design to operation and utilization. By integrating sociological expertise and interdisciplinary collaboration, rural public spaces can become vibrant and inclusive hubs that foster social cohesion, cultural preservation, economic vitality and environmental sustainability. This research provides relevant insights and a methodological framework for renewing rural public spaces, in hope of promoting the sustainable development of villages with diverse contexts in China and even in other countries. The findings underscore the transformative potential of renewing rural public spaces beyond their physical manifestations. By recognizing the intrinsic connection between public spaces and social dynamics, communities can harness the power of inclusive design and collective participation to cultivate a sense of ownership and belonging. The collaboration between professionals and local residents plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between the aspirations of rural communities and the design and implementation of public spaces.In light of the transformation of China’s urbanization patterns and the challenges faced by rural areas, the findings may offer valuable insights for policymakers, planners and design professionals involved in rural development initiatives. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of rural public spaces, stakeholders can adopt a proactive approach that emphasizes community engagement, cultural preservation, economic revitalization and environmental sustainability. Looking to the future, further research is warranted to explore the long-term effects of renewing rural public spaces on rural communities’ well-being, social cohesion and economic prosperity. Additionally, comparative researches across different rural contexts can help identify contextual factors that influence the success of such interventions and inform tailored strategies for sustainable development.