Inclusive pocket park co-design: design process with childrens of elementary school with use of digital fabrication as comunication

Abstract

The active participation of users in the design process (PP) in architecture is a collective action, which aims to meet their real needs. In terms of open spaces for children, squares and playgrounds become leisure spaces known for being places of coexistence, interaction and entertainment. However, the vast majority of children’s environments are planned and organized considering the perceptions and experiences of adults. Children become absent from the process of building the contemporary city. Codesign is an important tool for adding users to PP. The objective of this work is, therefore, to include children in the PP of a Pocket Park, using methods and tools to support Codesign. The work was structured based on bibliographic review, Focus Group, Culture Maker, Digital Fabrication and Prototyping. Two synchronous online workshops were held via a digital platform with 23 students and 2 k12 level primary school teachers. Participants received kits with objects and tools, which helped the exchange of information, perception and communication. The research indicated that the collaborative project has a great contribution in the PP of urban spaces. In addition, it promotes assertive communication between children and designers, welcoming their ideas and perceptions in a flexible way. It also indicates that Digital Fabrication and Prototyping equipment such as 3D printer and laser cutter are important vehicles in the construction of objects that facilitate communication during the PP, such as toys present in children’s daily lives. Finally, it is understood that there was a rich exchange of information and learning among those involved.