Unravelling the why: exploring the increasing recognition and adoption of co-creation in contemporary urban design

Abstract

Introduction Urban design has traditionally followed a top-down approach where decisions are made by experts, often excluding community input. This creates a disconnect between design intentions and actual community needs. Participatory processes, such as co-creation, are gaining recognition as solutions to these challenges by promoting more inclusive, resilient urban development. This study investigates why co-creation is being increasingly adopted in urban design through the lens of Simon Sinek’s Golden Circle framework, focusing specifically on understanding the underlying motivations driving co-creation.Material and Method We conducted an integrative literature review using a systematic search strategy to capture studies on co-creation published between 2000 and 2020. The selected studies were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring concepts and themes related to the purpose behind co-creation. Our approach centers on uncovering the “Why”—the motivations and purposes behind co-creation efforts—within the context of urban design.Results The thematic analysis revealed three key purposes behind co-creation in urban design. Societal Impact aims to address social equity, inclusivity, and community well-being. Strategic Impact highlights co-creation’s role in driving innovation, economic growth, and adaptability in urban development projects. Collaborative Synergy emphasizes the importance of stakeholder engagement, collective intelligence, and knowledge exchange in achieving more sustainable and responsive urban environments.Conclusion This study focuses on understanding the “Why” of co-creation in urban design, emphasizing the importance of aligning co-creation practices with broader societal, strategic, and collaborative goals. By revealing the core purposes behind co-creation, the study provides valuable insights for urban design practitioners and policymakers to create more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable urban spaces. Future research should focus on further exploring the social dimensions of co-creation and its potential long-term impact on urban environments.

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