Through our 2026-27 theme of Purposeful Places, DownCity Design will offer free community design education programs in which our teen participants will learn how the design of spaces and systems can help people connect. They will apply their new skills to create service projects for public spaces and community groups that will enhance the effectiveness of local service organizations. The young designers in our Design/Build Studios can make spaces welcoming and vibrant by creating small-scale wood structures including indoor or outdoor seating, playscapes, bus shelters and more. Our Creative Change Studios can help with graphic design projects like outreach materials, wayfinding signage, murals, and more!
What Can We Design For You?
We are accepting proposals for our 2026-2027 programs. Projects will be designed by students in our year-long design programs.
Do you have a design challenge that our young designers can help solve?
How can we help your non-profit, community organization, or social service agency do your work even better?
Review our project guidelines, and if you have an idea that meets our criteria, we encourage you to submit a project proposal for our upcoming programs. Proposals are open for Summer 2026 and Spring 2027 projects. A panel of educators, staff, and students will review all submissions and select one or more community partners to work with during the 2026–2027 program cycle. Selected projects will be offered to partner organizations as a free service.