Iowa State University
IN-25: Innovation B

The Community Design Lab at Iowa State partners with communities and organizations combining local knowledge and design research expertise to create equity and resilience through inclusive, transferable, innovative strategies and tactics. The Community Design Lab is a partnership between Iowa State University College of Design and the Office of Extension and Outreach. The ISU Community Design Lab encompasses many fields of expertise including landscape architecture, architecture, sustainable agriculture, community and regional planning, and community engagement. Partnership with communities is the foundation for their work; while they bring professional expertise and research-driven methodology to the table, the local knowledge and decision-making provided by our community partners is essential. The Community Design Lab provides research, engagement, and design to address the unique conditions and goals of partner communities. The CDL collaborates with community steering committees to: •RESEARCH: Analyze existing conditions and map assets •ENGAGE: Partner with steering committees to gather local ideas and information •DESIGN: Create design solutions to address a community issue Good design helps communities provide well-being and equitable access. The Community Design Lab builds healthy interior and exterior environments. Design solutions for health and wellness includes: Public space networks, Complete streets, Inclusive design, Agricultural urbanism, and Trail systems. The Community Design Lab innovates for flexible frameworks and local applications. Infrastructure + Prototypes project examples include: District energy systems, Stormwater management, Affordable housing, Social connectivity, and Streetscape systems. The Community Design Lab provides catalysts for dynamic futures. Community revitalization project examples include: Economic revisioning, Identity articulation, Disaster recovery and mitigation, Implementation strategies, and Community collaborations.