Designing Communities
A community co-design programme on the Pengegon estate.
We led a community co-design programme on the Pengegon estate as part of the Design Council's DOTT Cornwall programme, exploring the feasibility of a community centre and examining how community-led ideas could shape future improvements.
Ensuring community voices genuinely shaped future plans.
Many residents had experienced consultations before but felt outcomes were often decided elsewhere. We designed engagement activities that met people where they already gathered — through community events and informal workshops rather than relying solely on formal meetings. Activities encouraged families, children and young people to take part, making participation enjoyable as well as meaningful.
Made Open achieved in six weeks what others have failed to achieve in 10 years.
Tarn Lamb
CEO, Cornwall Neighbourhoods for Change
With families and young people.
To ensure everyone could participate, we used creative and hands-on co-design techniques. Children and families explored what facilities and activities mattered most to them. One memorable activity invited participants to build a model of their ideal community space using everyday materials — demonstrating how creative methods can unlock participation from people who may not normally engage in planning discussions.
Building community confidence and connections.
The co-design process delivered outcomes beyond physical proposals: • Residents developed confidence in their ability to influence local change • Community-owned ideas for facilities and services informed concept thinking around a shared community hub • Participants gained confidence and skills to continue leading initiatives themselves, supporting longer-term community-led regeneration
Ready to build a stronger community?
Book a demo to see how Made Open can help your organisation or partnership create value for communities and the systems that support them.
Book a demo