This Masters Research Project (MRP) explores the elements and benefits of the Co-Creation design approach and focuses on engagement of non-designers by designers during the physical space design process. The project’s objective, beyond research, is to enhance the design process of physical space with a co-creative approach to participation by non-designers, mainly clients and end users. To that end, the researcher adapted and tested several of the most successful Co-Creation tools and methods from other design fields for optimal inclusion of non-designers by designers. Based on an extensive literature review and expert interviews, the researcher designed and conducted a co-creative workshop for professional designers. Data was gathered on the designers’ understanding of and feelings about the design process, and on their experience with the co-creative techniques utilized.
Data analysis and synthesis led to many anticipated outcomes and to unexpected concerns centered on the value and trust of, and empathy with, the designer during a co-creative process with non-designers. This MRP offers the physical space design field data about and guidelines for productive, iterative Co-Creation of the design process. Perhaps a great value is in identifying the dearth of information regarding the designers’ needs during Co-Creation. “Recommendations & Next Steps” poses a series of new questions for researchers interested in studying the designers’ perspective further.
The MRP moves into solution-finding for professionals via the appended Guide to Effective Co-Creation of Physical Spaces, a step-by-step, stand-alone users’ guide for designers to facilitate productive co-creation of physical space design projects.