1st Edition

Designing Community Spaces A toolkit for architects and communities

By Mandip Sahota, Stefanie Stead Copyright 2026
168 Pages
by RIBA Publishing

168 Pages
by RIBA Publishing

As more groups take ownership of the buildings, spaces and services that matter to them, architects are being asked to work in new ways. This hands-on guide introduces a community design lens to help both architects and community-led organisations collaborate effectively on projects with long-term public benefit. If you are part of a community-led organisation, this toolkit will also help you get... Read more

About the Author / Acknowledgements,Preface, Setting the Scene: Q&A, Setting the Scene: Q&A,

Chapter One: Inside, Toolkit

Chapter Two: In Between, Toolkit

Chapter Three: Outside, Toolkit

Chapter Four: International, General Principles & Takeaways, Conclusion, References, Project Teams, Index, Image Credits

Biography

Stefanie Stead MBE is Director of Stead & Co Architects and a tutor at York College teaching on their HNC Construction & the Built Environment programme. She has extensive experience of facilitating consultation and design workshops, ranging from Elected Members through to school children. She was awarded an MBE for services to Architecture and Construction in 2018.

Mandip Sahota MBE is the founder of a social impact agency. She has been involved in developing inclusive investment opportunities at a national level, leading a grantmaking charity and co-founding Impact Hub Bradford. With over 20 years' experience, she understands the value of cross-sector collaboration and community co-design. She was awarded an MBE in 2022 for services to Charity and Public Service.