ROLA ABU HILAL(UCD, Dublin-Ireland):RECLAIMING OPEN SPACES:PARTICIPATION, DESIGN & COLLECTIVE ACTION

Name: ROLA ABU HILAL(UCD, Dublin-Ireland):RECLAIMING OPEN SPACES:PARTICIPATION, DESIGN & COLLECTIVE ACTION
Uploaded: 2025-12-01T16:28:42.000Z
Duration: 3 h 4 min 35 s

Introduction to the Webinar

Opening Remarks

The session begins with Sandra Golem introducing herself as a coordinator for the initiative in collaboration with Dr. Manal Bashawy, emphasizing the importance of this first webinar.

Sandra thanks attendees and mentions that the session is recorded and will be available online, making it accessible to everyone interested.

Purpose of the Initiative

The webinar is part of a Palestinian competition focused on sustainable design for public green spaces, highlighting its significance in community development.

Acknowledgment of partners involved in the initiative, including Belgian agencies and local municipalities participating in the competition.

Welcoming Participants

Introduction by Dr. Manal Bashawy

Dr. Manal welcomes everyone and expresses gratitude towards Sandra for her efforts in organizing the event.

She introduces guest speaker Rola Abu Hilal, noting her previous contributions and expertise in architecture and planning.

Importance of Community Engagement

Dr. Manal emphasizes creating safe public environments that respond to community needs, particularly regarding climate issues.

Encourages participants to engage actively during the session as valuable knowledge will be shared that can inform their designs for proposed spaces.

Speaker Introduction: Rola Abu Hilal

Background Information

Rola is introduced as an esteemed speaker who brings experience from various projects related to sustainable design and environmental responsiveness.

Her academic background includes a degree from Al-Quds University and involvement with international projects focusing on community engagement.

Focus Areas of Discussion

Rola's work emphasizes designing spaces that meet local requirements while being environmentally friendly and enhancing quality of life.

Main Presentation: Design Strategies

Overview of Today's Topic

Rola outlines her presentation focus on participatory design methods aimed at addressing community needs through innovative approaches.

Key Concepts Discussed

Emphasizes understanding community stories as essential for effective space design, aiming to incorporate feedback into practical solutions.

Conclusion

This structured approach aims to foster collaboration among stakeholders while ensuring designs are responsive to both environmental challenges and social dynamics within communities.

Understanding the Role of Architecture in Sustainability

The Interconnection Between Humanity and Nature

Discussion on how resources on Earth need to be renewed, emphasizing the importance of understanding our relationship with nature versus being its controllers.

Population growth leads to increased greenhouse gas emissions, resulting in environmental issues like wildfires and floods; these phenomena raise questions about climate change impacts.

Built Environment and Its Impact

The built environment is responsible for a significant portion of carbon emissions; there's a need to adopt low-carbon strategies that utilize existing materials sustainably.

Architects must recognize that the most sustainable buildings are those already present, adapting them rather than consuming new resources.

Principles of Regenerative Design

Introduction to regenerative design principles which focus on sustainability from project inception through its lifecycle, ensuring ongoing responsibility for the project's future.

Emphasis on shifting mindsets from merely building structures to considering whether construction is necessary or if adaptation can occur instead.

Community Engagement in Architectural Design

Highlighting the importance of designing for people rather than just nature; community involvement is crucial for effective design processes.

Architects' roles have evolved towards being facilitators who incorporate community perspectives into designs, fostering collaboration rather than individual decision-making.

Building Resilient Communities Through Participation

Engaging communities in decision-making enhances resilience against climate change by leveraging local knowledge and experiences.

The collaborative approach allows architects to facilitate discussions within communities, ensuring diverse perspectives shape outcomes.

Enhancing Ownership and Responsibility

When communities participate in design processes, they develop a sense of ownership over spaces, leading to greater care and responsibility for those environments.

This participatory model not only addresses climate challenges but also fosters social justice by including marginalized voices in planning discussions.

By structuring architectural practices around community engagement and sustainability principles, we can create resilient environments that respond effectively to both human needs and ecological challenges.

Understanding Participation in Community Design

The Ladder of Participation

The discussion introduces the "ladder of participation," emphasizing the importance of community engagement at various levels, starting from non-participation to tokenism and ultimately to citizen power.

As one moves up the ladder, the level of community involvement increases, allowing communities to make decisions that can change specific outcomes.

Role of Architects and Designers

Architects are encouraged to adopt a sociological perspective, understanding that their role extends beyond designing buildings; they are also responsible for creating experiences within spaces.

The focus is on how spaces between buildings can enhance user experience, highlighting that design should consider the entire system rather than isolated structures.

Macro vs. Micro Perspectives

Designers must think about both macro and micro scales when considering how their designs will impact and be impacted by surrounding environments.

The conversation critiques simplistic views of green architecture as merely incorporating solar panels or greenery without understanding sustainability as a comprehensive process.

Pre-design Phase Importance

Emphasis is placed on the pre-design phase, which includes community engagement and participatory approaches to ensure maximum involvement from stakeholders.

A project called "Heritact" aims to activate open spaces through community engagement, with interventions planned in Greece, Italy, and Ireland.

Framework for Community Engagement

The project framework involves three key phases: recognition (understanding site context), co-envisioning (imagining future scenarios with the community), and co-designing (implementing ideas collaboratively).

This structured approach ensures that designers engage with communities from the outset rather than retroactively seeking input after designs are completed.

Case Study: Community Interaction in Ireland

A case study illustrates how designers interacted with a community in Northern Ireland by asking them about their memories associated with specific places.

Through qualitative research methods like drop-in sessions, valuable insights were gathered about local history and significance that informed design decisions.

Mapping Community Insights

Participants contributed to a map detailing significant locations in their area, sharing personal stories tied to these places which enriched the design process.

This collaborative mapping revealed historical contexts unknown to designers previously, demonstrating the value of direct community interaction in shaping meaningful designs.

Community Engagement and Project Development

Overview of the Community Feedback Process

The video discusses a platform used to gather community voices, resulting in approximately 100 responses that highlighted favorite places, memories, and past events.

Data collection allowed participants to choose between anonymity or sharing their names, leading to categorized insights on green spaces, infrastructure, mobility, business tourism, and energy.

Key Categories Identified by the Community

Two primary categories emerged: heritage and tourism. The community expressed a strong desire for adaptive reuse of an old church that had been vacant for some time.

Workshops were conducted to delve into why certain ideas were preferred over others; this facilitated discussions among community members about design preferences.

Facilitating Tangible Ideas from Abstract Concepts

The role of facilitators was emphasized as they helped transform abstract ideas into tangible designs through participatory approaches like geo-design.

Four teams were formed based on shared visions; merging groups with similar priorities was crucial for cohesive project development.

Addressing Conflicts and Prioritizing Solutions

Merging groups sometimes led to conflicts regarding decision-making; facilitators aimed to find common ground among differing opinions.

Funding limitations meant only one solution could be implemented at a time despite multiple interventions being proposed by the community.

Surveying Community Preferences for Interventions

A survey was conducted where the community ranked various proposed interventions based on their perceived effectiveness.

This ranking process informed which projects would be prioritized based on available funding and long-term resource considerations.

Environmental Considerations in Project Implementation

An environmental life cycle assessment was performed to ensure materials chosen for interventions minimized carbon emissions and utilized local resources effectively.

Questions were raised about ongoing community engagement post-project implementation—who would maintain these designs?

Future Steps and Recommendations

Comparisons between different regions showed varying levels of success in achieving project goals; recommendations were made to enhance participatory approaches during implementation phases.

The next phase involves actual project execution starting January 2026, with further details provided in upcoming presentations.

Cascade Project Overview

Introduction to the Cascade Project

The Cascade project is funded by Creative Ireland Program focusing on urban areas severely affected by climate change impacts.

Water Management and Community Engagement in Dublin

Overview of Water Management Challenges

The project focuses on water management, particularly addressing the challenges posed by increased rainfall in narrow pathways between houses in the Linnois area.

Emphasizes creative drainage solutions while applying community engagement strategies similar to previous projects, involving direct interaction with local residents.

Community Engagement Strategies

Engaged various age groups, including children (ages 10-15) and adults (ages 30-40), to gather diverse perspectives on local issues related to water management.

Collected stories from residents about their experiences and difficulties, which were then transformed into posters featuring quotes that highlighted community concerns.

Collaborative Workshops

Conducted workshops where community members envisioned future improvements for their area, facilitating discussions through drawing and writing activities.

Involved architects and artists in developing solutions based on community feedback, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to design.

Feedback Mechanisms

Implemented feedback sessions allowing residents to vote on proposed solutions, fostering a sense of ownership over the outcomes.

Developed a negotiated plan for five pathways in the area based on collective input from the community.

Project Outcomes and Future Directions

Analyzed the impact of proposed solutions through effect studies to ensure inclusivity and effectiveness within the community context.

Introduced students from UCD into participatory approaches for design development as part of an ongoing project focused on climate engagement.

Dundrum Bay Design: A Community-Centric Approach

Project Introduction

The Dundrum Bay Design project aims to reimagine a busy street in Dublin through collaboration with local communities and UCD students.

Identifying Local Issues

Addressed safety concerns due to heavy traffic and underutilized spaces along this important thoroughfare, aiming for safer pedestrian access.

Participatory Sessions

Conducted drop-in sessions where residents shared personal stories related to their experiences in the area, contributing valuable insights into local heritage.

Community Feedback Integration

Encouraged dialogue among participants about their ideas for improving public spaces; utilized platforms for sharing comments and suggestions openly among community members.

This structured approach highlights key themes around water management challenges while emphasizing active participation from diverse community members.

Community Engagement and Design Approaches in Urban Development

Importance of Community Ideas

The community expressed enthusiasm and provided unique ideas that were previously unknown to the organizers, leading to a collection of approximately 170 ideas categorized into three sections: mobility, environment, and places.

A significant priority for the community was an increase in greenery, protected bike lanes, and dedicated spaces on specific streets. This feedback guided the workshop's focus.

Workshop Implementation and Strategy

Based on community preferences, a workshop was conducted to develop these ideas further; ongoing discussions are focused on implementation strategies. The voting process revealed strong support for certain initiatives like active mobility improvements.

The project is still active with funding from various sources aimed at executing these community-driven projects based on their priorities. More information can be found on their Instagram page or website.

Co-design Approach Assessment

An assessment requested by the Irish Architecture Foundation evaluated participatory design approaches used in several projects that adopted co-design principles, which yielded positive results according to community feedback.

Challenges identified included ensuring diverse participation from all community segments; often only established communities attended workshops while newer immigrant groups did not engage as much. This raised concerns about inclusivity in outreach efforts.

Engaging Diverse Communities

Strategies are being developed to ensure broader engagement across different demographics within the community during design processes; resource limitations pose challenges for facilitating such inclusive workshops effectively.

Tools like GeoDesign Hub have been utilized to enhance community participation but require future funding to sustain engagement efforts effectively over time. Trust between organizers and the community is crucial for successful collaboration moving forward.

Design Recommendations

Emphasizing deep understanding of site history through storytelling with residents can enrich design outcomes; informal conversations can yield valuable insights into local narratives that shape space usage patterns.

Designers should utilize simple tools for sketching and prototyping that resonate with non-expert participants, making it easier for them to contribute meaningfully without feeling overwhelmed by complex plans or technical jargon.

Ownership and Maintenance Considerations

Ensuring that the community feels ownership over design decisions leads to better maintenance of projects long-term; when residents feel involved in decision-making, they are more likely to care for public spaces created through collaborative efforts.

Even small-scale interventions can significantly impact climate transition goals if approached thoughtfully; designers play a pivotal role in fostering this change through innovative yet straightforward solutions tailored to local contexts.

Reflections on Cultural Context

The speaker reflects on how traditional communal building practices exist within Palestinian culture, suggesting that reviving these methods could enhance contemporary urban development efforts by integrating historical context into modern designs rather than viewing them as new concepts entirely.

Community Engagement in Architectural Design

The Importance of Community in Architecture

The speaker emphasizes that building methods are not foreign to their culture, but external pressures (like climate change and occupation) have distanced them from traditional practices.

There is a call to reconnect with the community's role in design, suggesting that designers should integrate community input into their work rather than solely relying on personal vision.

The speaker advocates for understanding community needs as essential, arguing that architects should facilitate discussions to align designs with what the community truly desires.

Traditional Practices and Modern Challenges

Acknowledgment of past practices where neighbors consulted each other before making decisions; this collaborative spirit is seen as vital for modern architectural initiatives.

Discussion about the significant role women played in traditional architecture, highlighting how collaboration among all stakeholders can lead to better outcomes in design projects.

Balancing Community Participation and Professional Expertise

While community participation is crucial, there must be a balance between this involvement and the technical knowledge architects bring. Designers need to guide communities while also considering professional standards.

Emphasis on the importance of understanding both community needs and design requirements; architects should not disregard their expertise while engaging with public input.

Translating Ideas into Actionable Designs

Architects are tasked with translating community ideas into tangible designs based on their expertise. This requires an understanding of local context and infrastructure.

The discussion highlights that engineers must draw knowledge from everyday life experiences alongside formal education to create relevant designs.

Sustainability Considerations in Design Choices

Mention of carbon emissions related to material choices; architects should prioritize sustainable materials over those contributing significantly to carbon footprints.

Reflection on how traditional architecture was built incrementally by communities, stressing the need for prioritization based on available resources and communal needs when designing new structures.

Future Perspectives on Architectural Design

Encouragement for long-term thinking in design processes; consider how spaces will evolve over time rather than just focusing on immediate needs or aesthetics.

Recognition that adaptability is key; buildings should be designed with resilience in mind, allowing them to change according to future demands or environmental conditions.

Discussion on Community Engagement and Urban Design

Importance of Adaptable Design

The speaker emphasizes the need for adaptable design that can accommodate user preferences, highlighting resilience similar to historical buildings.

Role of Municipalities in Project Management

A question is raised regarding the benefits for municipalities in engaging with community consultations and project management efforts, questioning the necessity of such initiatives.

Challenges in Community Engagement

The speaker reflects on their lack of experience with municipal perspectives, noting that community engagement often isn't prioritized within agendas.

Understanding Community Needs

It’s crucial for municipalities to respect and understand diverse community needs; failing to do so may lead to marginalized groups being adversely affected by policies.

Ownership and Responsibility in Communities

The discussion highlights how a sense of ownership among community members influences their behavior towards public spaces, impacting maintenance and care.

Consequences of Ignoring Community Input

If communities feel excluded from decision-making processes, they may resist changes imposed by authorities, leading to negative social behaviors like littering or vandalism.

The Benefits of Inclusive Design

Creating Environments Based on Community Feedback

Engaging communities in design processes fosters environments that reflect their needs, potentially reducing costs associated with maintenance and improving overall satisfaction.

Long-term Financial Implications for Municipalities

By designing spaces that consider local behaviors and experiences, municipalities can reduce long-term maintenance costs while enhancing community well-being.

Case Study: Lighting Issues in Public Spaces

Example from Italy's Street Lighting Problem

An anecdote illustrates how poor consultation led to repeated damage to street lights by local youth; better engagement could have prevented unnecessary expenses.

Community Ownership and Safety

Impact on Crime Reduction through Engagement

The importance of community engagement is reiterated as it not only fosters a sense of belonging but also contributes to safer public spaces by reducing crime rates.

Community Engagement and Urban Regeneration

Importance of Community Engagement

Emphasizes the significance of community engagement in fostering positive consequences that aid in developing urban spaces.

Suggests that communities should take responsibility for their blocks, enhancing public spaces through collective efforts.

Approach to Urban Planning

Advocates for viewing buildings as part of an integrated neighborhood rather than individual entities, promoting shared responsibility among residents.

Highlights the need for a micro-scale approach to urban design, where small community actions can lead to broader impacts.

Engaging with Communities

Discusses how meetings and back-and-forth communication between engineers and communities provide valuable insights into local needs.

Raises concerns about limited access to sites due to time constraints, especially during exam periods, while stressing the importance of community relevance in projects.

Strategies for Effective Community Interaction

Recommends conducting traditional site analyses before engaging deeply with the community to understand physical space better.

Encourages students to visit sites at least once as a group to interact with locals and gather firsthand information.

Building Connections within Communities

Suggests identifying key individuals within communities who can facilitate connections and trust-building between students and residents.

Advises on leveraging existing relationships or networks within the community for effective outreach and interviews.

Overcoming Barriers in Communication

Stresses the importance of having documentation when approaching communities, as it helps establish credibility and reduces apprehension from residents.

Proposes various methods for engaging with communities, including open discussions or online surveys, emphasizing flexibility based on circumstances.

Discussion on Community Engagement and Tools

Introduction to Palestinian Participation

Participants from Palestine, including those not residing in the West Bank, are involved in discussions. This includes colleagues from Gaza and others living far away. The speaker aims to build on shared experiences with the audience's team.

Use of Remote Tools for Interaction

The speaker mentions using remote tools like social media (e.g., Facebook) to facilitate interactions without needing physical presence at sites. They express interest in exploring these tools further for community engagement.

Local Community Initiatives

A local community page was created on Facebook by residents, which serves as a platform for sharing information about local businesses and events, such as new shops opening or street closures. This initiative enhances neighborhood connectivity.

Digital Platforms for Real-Time Updates

The community page is utilized for real-time updates regarding local issues like road closures or emergencies, effectively creating an electronic version of the neighborhood street where residents can communicate important information quickly.

Collaboration with Municipalities

Suggestions are made to collaborate with municipalities by creating Facebook pages that allow locals to engage directly with their communities and provide feedback on municipal projects or concerns through digital platforms. This could enhance trust between residents and local authorities.

Social Media as a Tool for Feedback

Emphasizing the importance of social media, the speaker suggests that groups can create pages to gather community input through simple methods like voting on designs or initiatives using emojis, thus encouraging participation and interaction among residents.

Building Trust within Communities

The discussion highlights how establishing trust within communities is crucial; utilizing digital platforms allows individuals to connect more easily and share their thoughts, fostering a sense of belonging and involvement in local matters.

Conclusion and Acknowledgments

The session concludes with gratitude towards participants, especially Engineer Rola Abu Hilal, emphasizing her integral role in the team’s efforts while encouraging ongoing engagement through upcoming lectures and reminders via social media channels like Instagram and LinkedIn.