Participatory Design Research Project & Report

2023-2025

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Consultant group of Haeccity Studio Architecture (HSA), Vancouver Design Nerds (VDN), and Kinwa Bluesky were engaged by the City of Vancouver (COV) to conduct the research study documented in this report, commencing in September 2023. The study was developed in collaboration with COV Facilities Planning and Social Infrastructure teams.

This report intends to inform the design development and operation of future colocation hubs for social and cultural non-profit organizations (NPOs) in the City of Vancouver. The term “colocation” is used throughout this report to refer to any location where two or more NPOs share facilities. This can take on a number of different forms, both spatially and operationally.

This research study sought to gather information through engagement with NPO and COV staff, including site tours, interviews, and interactive workshops. This information was synthesized into a series of case studies, program analysis, spatial and operational typologies, and a high level functional program template meant to be used by future stakeholders. These assets are meant to be made available to NPOs and COV staff in order to strengthen their respective roles in fostering partnerships, building capacity, and delivering facilities that meet the needs of social and cultural sectors. The end goal is to plan and implement successful non-profit colocation hubs, supporting their critical work toward a more equitable, accessible, and resilient city.

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