Co-Create with Residents
Participatory Action Research Approach in Surface Decoration of Old Buildings
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This scholarly work proposes an innovative framework for mediating tensions between professional designers and local residents in the context of urban regeneration. Employing a participatory action research methodology, the study develops a co-creation model that systematizes spontaneous façade modifications into structured collaborative processes through the use of contemporary art approaches. The research identifies collage as an effective medium for resident engagement and establishes key operational principles, including simplified technical strategies, enjoyment-oriented processes, and tiered participation structures (“design to/from residents”). The findings illustrate how artistic practice can serve as a bridge between architectural technology and urban culture through tripartite collaboration among residents, designers, and artists. The study offers both practical strategies for community-led renewal and theoretical contributions to participatory design discourse, supported by comparative case analyses drawn from Chinese and European urban contexts. This research provides significant insights into fostering more equitable urban environments through grassroots artistic collaboration.
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About the Book
This book explores the persistent tension between professional designers and residents in urban regeneration, where contrasting priorities—redevelopment versus rehabilitation—frequently result in fragmented visual outcomes. It proposes artistic intervention as a mediating approach, conceptualizing co-creation as a collaborative process in which designers employ contemporary art methodologies to guide residents in the decoration of building facades, thereby integrating aesthetic enhancement with participatory empowerment. Drawing on three action research workshops, the study identifies collage as an effective medium, develops symbolic translations for practical design applications, and formulates tiered engagement principles (“design to/from residents” and “local art integration”) to enhance inclusivity and shared enjoyment.
The work advances co-creation as a tripartite model that unites residents, designers, and artists, bridging art, technology, and urban culture. It provides practitioners with a practical framework for community-driven renewal while contributing to the broader discourse on participatory design. This publication was supported by the Science and Technology Research Program of Chongqing Municipal Education Commission (Grant No. KJQN202201001) and the Doctoral Research Initiation Project of Sichuan Fine Arts Institute (Grant No. 22BSQD009). Ultimately, the research underscores the transformative potential of integrating artistic practice with grassroots collaboration to shape more equitable and culturally resonant urban environments.
About the Author
Dr. Xian Li, is affiliated with Sichuan Fine Arts Institute in Chongqing, China. His research focuses on participatory design in urban regeneration and the translation of traditional cultural elements into contemporary spatial design.