the Neighborhood Design Center

Engagement and Facilitation,

Arts Planning and Cultural Programming

Washington College Innovation Hub

Site footprint and tour of the existing space.
Site footprint and tour of the existing space.

Washington College engaged the Neighborhood Design Center to assess and document a vision for their future Innovation Hub.

Beginning in late 2023, Washington College conducted a comprehensive feasibility study, supported by a planning grant from the Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO), to assess the need for and feasibility of a maker space and innovation hub to serve campus and community in Chestertown, Maryland.

The study engaged nearly 800 stakeholders from various sectors, demonstrating strong community support and identifying clear priorities and opportunities for the project.

The project was structured in three phases.

    • Phase One focused on information gathering, in which the Neighborhood Design Center worked alongside the students and professors of an interdisciplinary course on Stakeholder Engagement to offer guidance in conducting surveys and interviews.

    • Phase Two involved synthesizing this information into a prioritized programming list and drafting a vision statement.

    • Phase Three featured a public design workshop to reflect on the vision statement, design principles, and building program prioritization.

NDC identified key architectural elements—such as look, feel, and function—that were crucial for the next phase of development.

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A few key pages from the Vision Report which synthesizes our findings and recommendations.
A few key pages from the Vision Report which synthesizes our findings and recommendations.

Similar Projects

One of many community workshops. Photos by Matt Roth.

Streetscape and Pedestrian Planning

West North Avenue Streetscape Conceptual Master Plan

For this large-scale project, we assembled dozens of professionals who donated a total value of $110,000 for their expert services. The result was an impactful master plan that secured a $26M Federal TIGER Grant to make these community visions and reality.

Community PlanningEngagement and Facilitation

Old Goucher Vision Plan

We helped identify this historic neighborhood’s assets and create clear ways forward to strengthen and attract local businesses and new residents. The plan also addressed pressing concerns of the community, particularly physical improvements to open space, buildings, and transportation.

Community PlanningEngagement and Facilitation

Cottage City Community Park Vision

We partnered with the town of Cottage City to reimagine their Moyer’s Mill Community Park. NDC completed an in-depth analysis of the site and engaged the community to understand present and future wants and needs.

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Case Studies