Why is space so important for co-creative work? That is because the space itself allows people to meet up and to create something new together with the equipment and tools provided to them with the space. Co-creation demands a higher level of thinking than the usual normal day job lifestyle and therefore requires special conditions to be met. To get started, you have the physical space, which in best case scenario, is away from everything that supports normality. The physical space can develop the emotional level of each individual, which in turn can enable them to drop their guard towards new subject and in turn supports “playing” together as equals. In these scenarios, people tend to feel secure and safe. Through which everyone can discover the cognitive space where diverse experience and perspectives can interact with one another.
THE INNER BUILDING
> Here is presented an example of a conceptual inner building design which supports co-creation
Floor Plans & 3D Illustrations
Main / 1st Floor
(Click HERE for more information)
Hanger / Ground Floor
Canteen / 2nd Floor
Top / 3th Floor
LOWER LEVEL & UPPER LEVEL
Rooftop
Conclusion
To do co-creation work and run co-creation workshops, you don’t necessarily need a new fancy space, like the one which was earlier presented. You can start with the following things, which will enable co-creation inside of any already given space.
A room, that has the following necessities:
A large surface to draw on
Something to draw on the surface with
Post-its
A way to write on post-its
Refreshments, food
Enough space for every participant
Facilitator or someone with experience in co-creation
Way to communicate with outside world if necessary
Tele-co-creation
Due to the changing situations in the world, it might be necessary to find digital substitutes for the analog necessities. Things like these might work:
A large surface to draw on (Miro)
Way to vocally communicate with each other (Zoom)
Planned scheduled refreshment breaks
Facilitator or someone with experience in co-creation
Most importantly, you need the human connection.
“Because things grow. Wherever there is air and light and space, things grow.”
Helen Oyeyemi
Co-creation guide 