Communities by Design (CxD)

Communities know their needs best. Communities by Design brings the expertise and tools to help turn those priorities into action.

Through the Architects Foundation’s Communities by Design program, interdisciplinary Design Assistance Teams work alongside residents, civic leaders, and local stakeholders to address challenges including climate resilience, affordable housing, disaster recovery, downtown revitalization, transportation, and equitable development.

Through community tours, public workshops, and collaborative design sessions, each team helps communities develop practical, community-driven strategies rooted in local priorities — creating a clear path from ideas to implementation.

For nearly six decades, this model has helped communities across the country and around the world build consensus, identify new possibilities, and create momentum for lasting change.

Your gift helps ensure that communities with the greatest need can access Communities by Design’s expertise, tools, and resources without cost being a barrier.

Support Communities by Design and help more communities shape stronger, more resilient futures.