Initial planning and review of the Community Design Center Mission, budget and development in 2025 is under way. Stay tuned for more updates and information.

I am a recently retired architect with more than 50 years experience in the design of housing, schools, preservation, and sustainability. I am the volunteer Director of CUBE- the Center for Understanding the Built Environment. It focuses on observing, visualizing, and enhancing the design of communities. As a 501-C-3 not-for-profit, CUBE could be the catalyst for establishing a Community Design Center in Princeton.

The Community Design Center would be a space where residents and visitors can learn about and provide comments on design issues and opportunities around town. Small group conversations could lead to creating design suggestions and proposals. The location of the Center ideally would be in an easily accessible storefront space in or near the center of town.

Potential topics would include the design of public spaces, and new and adaptive reuse designs that could enhance the attractiveness and livability of our neighborhoods. Lighting, signage, plantings, seating, building materials, colors, height all influence overall design success. Sharing in a public venue could also be helpful to broader communication amongst decision makers.

Small groups and individuals are welcome to take part in the design center. It would encourage open exchange of ideas regarding how design can enhance our town center and neighborhoods.

Please share your thoughts and suggestions on this.

Kirk Gastinger, FAIA

252 Guyot Avenue 816 585 8916 kirkgastinger@gmail.com