the Neighborhood Design Center

Pro Bono Community Design

We offer conceptual design assistance for community-initiated projects through two programs.

We partner with neighborhood organizations, nonprofits, and schools to work on community-initiated projects.

These projects improve the places we live, work, play, and learn. NDC offers two programs that provide Pro Bono design services directly. They are “Community Design Works” and “Arts Space Technical Assistance.” Read on for more details.

Community Design Works Program

Working with volunteer professionals, we assist with architectural, landscape, and planning initiatives in Baltimore City and Prince George’s County.

Is my project the right fit?

    • Do you have a community-initiated project with which you want assistance? 

    • Is your project related to the built environment, and is located in or serves a low- to moderate-income community?

    • Are you ready for a 4-8 month process? 

    • Is there a coalition of at least 6-8 other neighbors or local stakeholders invested in the project? 

If the answer is “yes” to the above, take a moment to review this informational sheet and fill out the form below to begin a conversation with NDC:

Placemaking Week attendees at Blue Light Junction, an Arts Space Technical Assistance project.

Arts Space Technical Assistance Program

Through our Arts Space Technical Assistance program, we offer pro bono architectural services and consultations to support the creation of safe, affordable, and legal buildings and spaces for artists in Baltimore City.

Is my project the right fit?

    • Are you a visual or performing artist, designer, arts organization, or any kind of creative entrepreneur in Baltimore City? 

    • Do you have questions about renovating your space or how to plan for construction?

    • Are you ready for a 2-6 month process? 

If the answer is “yes” to the above, take a moment to review this informational sheet and fill out the interest form below to start a conversation. We are currently accepting applicants for FY25 and have space for up to 8 more projects before June 2025.

Have questions about the Arts Space Technical Assistance program? Email Karla Brent at kbrent@ndc-md.org.

Want to learn more? Check out one of our ASTA case studies or project snapshots.

Apply

This Pro Bono work is made possible by our generous donors, and dedicated partners who volunteer their talents.

To support the continued work of our Pro Bono services, donate or volunteer.

Donate
Volunteer

Are you part of an agency or municipality?

You can hire our experienced Neighborhood Design Center Staff. We offer professional design services at market rate.

Learn How to Hire Us