New Strategies in Social Placemaking at ABX 2019

We’re excited to announce that Principals Clara Batchelor and Megan Tomkins will be leading a workshop at ABX 2019, “New Strategies in Social Placemaking” (enter WE18 in the search bar for more information). The workshop aims to address a growing interest in employing new strategies in placemaking and design for public open spaces, and will focus on the process we used at Salem’s new Charlotte Forten Park at 289 Derby Street. Together with key collaborators, Claudia Paraschiv of Studioful and Tom Daniel, AICP, Salem’s Director of Planning and Community Development, Megan and Clara will present attendees with a case study on the public process in Salem, discuss strategies for social placemaking and stakeholder engagement, involve participants in a hands-on activity, and moderate a group discussion about design trends, stakeholder participation, and applying placemaking principles during the design process.

Drum circle with a local instructor on the site prior to construction, using stump “seats” painted and arranged by student volunteers. Photo by John Andrews.

A round table discussion with key regulatory organizations and community group leaders. In the foreground, a temporary idea blackboard was installed at the site for six weeks to collect ideas and visions for the space from residents and passersby. Photo by John Andrews.

At each event, CBA presented design options and progress, holding one-on-one conversations with constituents to identify their needs and concerns. Photo by John Andrews.

Interactive design and family-friendly activities such as “Placemaking Placemats”, yoga, and live music were coordinated and developed by Claudia Paraschiv Studioful Design.