What we mean by…
Design
We define design in broad terms: from identifying local needs and aspirations, to understanding the local context in physical and socio-economic terms, through developing a shared vision and design brief, to an inclusive, engaged and transparent design process.
Empowering Design Processes
We see design not only as a tool for creating great places, but also as a way to connect people and to empower them with enhanced confidence, skills, and a greater sense of agency. We call design processes that build in benefit for those who engage with them empowering design processes.
These are:
Community-led design
The design/built environment project is led and commissioned by a community-based organisation or group.
Participatory design
Local people and organisations are actively engaged in the design process being led by the commissioning client/project lead and play an active role in decision-making.
Collaborative/co-design
Various groups and interests come together to commission and/or develop a design process that responds to their individual and collective needs and aspirations.
Placemaking
Processes and projects that aim to improve the quality of places in permanent (e.g. design of new housing or public spaces) or temporary ways (e.g. festivals, pop up shops), and lead to places that are inviting, inclusive and bring opportunity and delight to the people who live, work and play there.