On October 25th, 2023, architect Juliette Patterson graced the Legacy Fund’s platform with an insightful webinar, unraveling the potential of design charettes as a powerful tool for citizen groups to safeguard and evolve their local green spaces. As the Founding Partner of the Catalyse Urbaine agency, Juliette Patterson brings over two decades of experience in architectural and landscape projects that harmoniously blend environmental consciousness with public welfare.
The term “charrette,” stemming from the French word meaning “cart,” historically referred to the last intense effort by art and architecture students to meet project deadlines. In contemporary times, a “charrette” symbolizes collaborative planning, amalgamating creative and intensive working sessions with public engagement, effectively becoming a conduit for transformative community change.
Patterson’s presentation underscores the multifaceted nature of a design charette. It is more than just a planning process; it is a public demonstration of community aspirations and desires for threatened natural spaces. By developing a master plan through a charette, communities showcase their affirmative stance, not merely opposing urban development but advocating for sustainable and beneficial alternatives. This positive vision not only aids in fundraising efforts by demonstrating what the space could become through collective effort but also serves as a potent instrument to illustrate to decision-makers the potential of these areas.
Watch the video for Patterson’s more in-depth description and for tips on how to organize your own design charette. Reach out to the Legacy Fund if you have any further questions or are interested in organizing a charette.
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