A New Southern Downtown? : Gentrification in Ferencváos, Budapest and Södermalm, Stockholm

Abstract: The aim of the thesis is to analyze how residents in the Ferencváros district of Budapest, Hungary and the Södermalm district of Stockholm, Sweden experience the urban regenerations in the area, which have caused gentrification. The theory is that gentrification is an effect of regeneration, and may be perceived as positive or negative to a different degree. The areas of research are defined as having similar relative geographic positions and have both been affected by gentrification. The research questions are about emotions of change, perceived authenticity and engagement for the areas. The main method is in-depth interviews with residents and businessmen in the areas. Also concrete renewal policies and economic indicators are presented shortly. The results show that the respondents in Ferencváros are generally more positive towards the changes. The emotions of authenticity and engagement are slightly stronger in Södermalm. The conclusion of the thesis is that gentrification is at a later phase in Södermalm, than in Ferencváros. Ferencváros has also been more unevenly affected by gentrification.