Public Architecture

Public Architecture began with the idea that designers could expand their impact on communities by more proactively engaging social issues, particularly in underserved populations. Public Architecture’s early efforts yielded an understanding that, in order to make a meaningful impact, design resources needed to be leveraged on a profession-wide scale. Since 2002, Public Architecture has developed methods for effectively working within the social sector and has spread awareness within the design profession about the benefits and best practices of proactive projects and pro bono service. Public Architecture’s design initiatives and The 1% program have become a significant part of a larger movement toward socially impactful design services. This has supported the growth of our network, catalized our ablility to attract funders, and helped us to build a marketable suite of knowledge and skills. Today, with support from foundations, corporations, and fee for service projects, Public Architecture is improving underserved communities by: > institutionalizing pro bono service within the design profession through The 1% program, an online platform for design firms to pledge a minimum of 1% of their billable hours to pro bono service. The 1% also connects design firms with nonprofits in need of design services to do pro bono projects together. > providing strategic design services to organizations and governments to solve complex, scalable problems in the built environment. > developing knowledge and methods for providing services to underserved communities. With the items laid out in the next pages, Public Architecture sets forth the vision and core strategy for how it will more effectively achieve its mission over the next three years. John Peterson Founder and President