Annet Kempenaar and Özlemnur Ataol
This paper presents the conceptual foundations, curriculum, and first experiences of the newly developed Master’s program Designing Spatial Transformations at the University of Groningen. The program responds to contemporary systemic spatial challenges such as climate adaptation, energy transition, sustainable food production, inclusive mobility, and equitable urban development. These complex challenges require institutional and socio-cultural change next to spatial interventions. This calls for a systemic perspective with a design approach that includes both spatial, process and contextual design interventions, something which is not typically part of existing planning and architecture educational programs.
Drawing on Youngs levels of design, systems thinking, transition design and structuration theory, the curriculum emphasises long-term systemic perspectives, co-design processes, and how design-agency can make a difference. The one-year curriculum combines existing courses from the Environmental and Infrastructure Planning program with three new courses: Design and Planning Theory, Co-Design Methods and Methodology, and Transformative Design Approaches.
Initial reflections from students and staff suggest that the program successfully encourages the development of a designerly mindset, deepens the understanding of co-design as an ethical and relational practice as well as the potential of design in transformative spatial change processes. At the same time, challenges remain in strengthening students’ conceptual and critical thinking, and providing sufficient opportunities for training design skills within the constraints of a one-year program. Overall, the program demonstrates a promising educational model for preparing spatial professionals to contribute to dealing with the big spatial challenges of today.
Keywords: Spatial Design, Institutional Design, Transition, Transformation, Planning