The Art of Placemaking
BY ASHLEY ADAMMA OCHIAGHA MEEKS
We all exist in a multitude of spaces, but our spirits know when we’ve encountered a place—somewhere to be remembered, honored, cherished, savored. Cue “This Must Be The Place” by The Talking Heads…
As 2024 winds down, I frequently ask myself: 'Where are we now?” As a community member and a commercial interior designer, I often wonder: 'How can placemaking support connection to Self and Others?'
Placemaking, at its core, is the art and science of harmonizing cultural resonance and user experience in physical space to forge connection. It goes beyond checking functional boxes, centering efficiency over everything. It’s about designing experiences we want to share because the spaces we exist in set the tone.
After collectively navigating so many societal shifts over the last five years, it’s time to pause, zoom out, and reflect on the state of place in our society. What can we learn and edit to calibrate our shared experiences as the status quo evolves?
Cultural Resonance in the Built Environment
I’ve become fixated on the term ‘cultural resonance’ as it relates to shaping and planning space. It encapsulates the sense of connection (or disconnection) one feels when experiencing their surroundings.
Years ago, I was in Vegas for work designing a “clinic of the future” pilot. After a full first day of facilitating focus groups and touring existing facilities, I returned to my hotel room to recharge before another busy day.
I tucked myself into bed early and reached to roll down the blackout window shade when suddenly, to my surprise, I was faced with an audience of white people staring back at me on the roller shade’s custom pattern. It caused friction in my experience.
Feeling culturally respected by your surroundings sparks a self-willed connection. Intentionally inclusive experiences affirm belonging.
User Engagement Improves User Experience
The Dream Spot — Summer 2024
I was talking to a client about positive societal interventions through placemaking; I told him about The Wood, a teen and youth center that I’m working on in my hometown of Brooklyn Park. An “aha” moment was had and he asked if I could co-create a third space pilot for teens in the Northside of Minneapolis.
Step 01: Dreaming Big
During our first workshop, I asked the teens about their pace of life and how they connect with friends. We identified a common desire to laugh and chill. A wish for space to simply, safely, and comfortably be. The teens let their intuitions drive as we developed our finish palette—gravitating to grounding shades of green and soft doses of lavender.
“I see sunlight and lots of color. I touch fuzzy rugs; maybe some sensory fidget toys.”
—Dream Team, Teen Representatives
Step 02: Scaling Realistically
In our second workshop, we mapped out floor plans and wall elevations, nailing down the placement of the big screen TV, gaming system, green wall backdrop, basketball hoop and mural. Transparently navigating the design and budgeting process together ensured the teens were our decision-makers.
“It’s been truly inspiring to see the collective creativity and intelligence of everyone involved in shaping this new venture!”
— Souphak Kienitz, The Minneapolis Foundation
Step 03: Making it Happen
Our third workshop focused on practicality and execution. To maximize the budget, we took the mural into our own hands. We also created affirmation art on canvases to represent the values that guided the intentions of The Dream Spot—it’s an installation that can evolve to continue to foster connection.
“Ashley, you do amazing work and I'm appreciative of your vision! [It] definitely feels like the vibe we are going for! The youth are really excited for this space to be created! Step by step, this is really happening!”
— Markella Smith, Owner of The Dream Shop
Making space for real talk makes space better. The Dream Spot is a place where youth can meet friends, play Uno, make a sandwich, watch 90’s sitcoms, and restore their blossoming spirits. This sanctuary lives as precedent inviting us to design intentionally in tandem with community members.
Ashley Adamma Ochiagha Meeks
Ashley Adamma Ochiagha Meeks is a commercially-trained interior designer, cultural thought leader & encourager of fellow entrepreneurs. She is the owner, interior designer & user engagement strategist behind Fancy Meeting You Here, a design studio focused on placemaking for changemakers.
