A co-design session dedicated to engaging young participants took place on Monday, 13 January, at Edilmaster School in collaboration with Ricreatorio Cobolli, Trieste. The session employed the Block by Block methodology, developed by the United Nations Agency UN-Habitat, which uses the popular video game Minecraft as a virtual modeling tool for collaborative project proposals.
By leveraging gaming as a participatory tool, the initiative aims to simplify self-expression and facilitate the transformation of ideas into concrete plans, addressing the needs and desires of participants through actionable steps.
The workshop began with an introduction to the project, followed by a facilitated brainstorming session. During this phase, participants were guided to think about the elements that make public spaces welcoming and enjoyable. They then transitioned to the moderation phase within Minecraft, where their ideas took virtual shape.
Case studies demonstrate that using Minecraft in urban design stimulates youth interest in planning and design, allowing them to visually express ideas while building skills and connections within their community. Designing with Minecraft enables young people to explore different design alternatives, visualize concepts, and challenge perspectives. The deliberative process also fosters a broader understanding of urban environments, builds confidence in public speaking, and strengthens social relationships.
For more details on the Block by Block methodology, visit UN-Habitat’s website.
Photo credit : Nadia Vedova