By Raffi Arzoumanian
"Community-focused architecture is a constant reminder that design is never static; it evolves with the people it serves. My hope for every project is that it will continue to grow and adapt alongside its community, serving as a site of meaning and possibility for generations to come.”
As an architect, my work has always been driven by a belief that the spaces we design should bring people together. Over the years, I’ve been privileged to work on projects that aim to do just that – community centers, along with other gathering and community support spaces, where human connections and cultures are allowed to flourish.
These projects are deeply personal to me, not only because of their potential to enrich lives but because they push me to think beyond aesthetics and functionality to address something more profound: how architecture can nurture a sense of belonging while supporting a diverse range of needs.
Exploring Each Community’s Uniqueness
Designing for a community that I’m not inherently part of requires both humility and curiosity. Each community carries its own unique history, traditions, and rhythms of life, and understanding these requires more than just surface-level research. My first step is to learn – to delve into the community’s history, practices, and priorities as a foundation for the work ahead.
But research can only take me so far. To truly understand a community, I need to immerse myself in its everyday life. Early in a project, I’ll attend events or gatherings – be it a service at a church or synagogue, or a meeting at a community center – not to intrude, but to observe. I want to see how people come together, how they move through a space, how they interact with one another. These moments of immersion are essential, as they give me a sense of the dynamics that make each community distinct.
Balancing Diverse Interests
Building upon my initial observations and my understanding of a particular community, before delving into the design of physical spaces, I focus on building relationships. This includes identifying a core group of stakeholders – community leaders, organizers, or anyone who represents the voices that need to be heard.
Community-based projects thrive on dialogue. With so many voices and priorities involved, reaching a shared vision requires deep listening, open communication, and a willingness to adapt. Within any group, you’ll find a wide range of goals, needs, and even contradictions. My role is to negotiate and align these into a cohesive program and budget.
For example, on one project, I worked closely with the director of sports for a community center. His passion and focus were, understandably, on athletic facilities, but the project also involved creating many other space types. Explaining to him how these diverse spaces could coexist – and even complement his goals – helped him comprehend the requirements we could and could not accommodate.
Getting to a solution requires a lot of conversation, a lot of give and take, and sometimes even starting over. The earliest steps in the communication process set the foundation. It’s when you build trust, set expectations, and establish a shared understanding of the challenges ahead. In my experience, honesty and empathy in these early conversations go a long way. People need to feel heard, even if not every idea can be implemented as they envision it.
Essential Considerations for Community Spaces
With budget restraints often a factor, flexibility is fundamental to the design of community-focused projects. The variety of users, programming aspirations, and the intensity of use within these facilities further drives the need for adaptable, multipurpose spaces.
For example, on a recent project, we designed spaces for learning, appropriate for both teenagers and adults, and configured to accommodate both small discussions and larger gatherings. Shared spaces, whether they serve religious, social, or educational functions, not only enhance versatility but also create opportunities for people, including those of different generations, to interact in new and unexpected ways.
This approach isn’t just about functionality; it also reduces costs. By designing spaces that serve multiple purposes, we can minimize the overall square footage of a building, saving on both construction and operational expenses. A smaller, more efficiently used structure often feels more dynamic and vibrant because its spaces are consistently active, rather than sitting idle waiting for a specific use.
Another essential consideration is longevity. I often ask clients, “Where do you see this facility five years down the line?” A well-designed space should be able to grow and evolve alongside the community it serves, adapting to new needs and priorities over time. Flexibility in design isn’t just about efficiency – it’s about creating spaces that remain relevant and meaningful for years to come.
Trends Shaping the Future of Community Architecture
The way we design community spaces is evolving, influenced by changes in how people connect, use technology, and view sustainability. Post-COVID, we’ve seen a shift in how people want to gather. They value being social but also desire spaces that respect their individuality.
For example, in a recent wellness center project, we designed open spaces with subtle divisions, allowing people to be alone or in small groups while still feeling part of a larger environment. This balance between connection and personal space is becoming increasingly important.
Technology is another driving force. Community spaces now demand seamless internet access and integrated tech solutions that provide more options and opportunities for engagement. From hybrid learning setups to interactive event spaces, technology is reshaping what’s possible in these environments.
Finally, sustainability is no longer just a talking point – it’s a priority. The next generation of clients is asking more informed and thoughtful questions about environmental impact, energy efficiency, and long-term sustainability. They want buildings that reflect their values and reduce their footprint, which is a promising shift for the future of architecture.
Community-Based Architecture: Measuring Success
What’s the best way to measure the effectiveness of any community facility? For me, the true indicator of success in community-based architecture lies in the life that unfolds within the spaces we’ve created. It’s in observing the community center hosting events that bring together neighbors who might not have otherwise crossed paths; or seeing the gymnasium buzzing with activity on a weeknight.
Success is when a space becomes more than just a structure – when it becomes a catalyst for growth, connection, and transformation. There’s nothing quite like hearing that a community is thriving because of what we’ve built together, that a space has helped them take the next step in their collective journey.
Community-focused architecture is a constant reminder that design is never static; it evolves with the people it serves. My hope for every project is that it will continue to grow and adapt alongside its community, serving as a site of meaning and possibility for generations to come.
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