Client: Seven Homes
Project: Strategic Planning Communication for SevenHomes
SQUARESPACE WEBSITE DESIGN
PRESENTATION BOARDS DESIGN
PRINT MATERIALS
FEEDBACK PLATFORMS
Ashbury Public Consultations
The challenge was not just to present a plan, but to start a genuine conversation.
Community consultation is an inevitable step for gaining planning permission, but it often requires addressing a communication gap. For SevenHomes and their proposed Idstone Road development concept in Ashbury, the goal was to present the plan to the local community and authorities. The challenge was to do so in a way that was clear, accessible, and engaging.
My role was to act as the bridge between technical and public-facing communication. I gathered information, plans, and drawings from the project teams and translated them into easily accessible, well-presented materials to support the SevenHomes team during the consultation.
The Solution: Designing for Clarity & Connection
My approach focused on a clear, problem-solving narrative, using design as a tool for transparency. By creating a unified suite of materials—from consultation boards and a dedicated website to a detailed leaflet and both physical and online feedback forms—we ensured the SevenHomes team had a professional and cohesive platform to present their vision.
The heart of the project was simple: good design builds bridges.
The website and consultation boards were crafted to be approachable, using an inviting tone and a clean, easy-to-navigate structure. Visual assets, like site plans, were rendered to be immediately understandable, allowing citizens to visualize the concepts and the potential impact on their village. This wasn't just about aesthetics; it was about empowering the public to give informed, meaningful feedback.
[Place a quote here: A mock-up of one of the consultation boards, with a key section highlighted.]
"SevenHomes brings unparalleled expertise and vision to every development, ensuring high-quality, sustainable, and attractive homes that meet local needs."
The Outcome: Building Trust and Securing Success
The strategic design of the consultation materials played a significant role in the project’s positive reception. We transformed a potentially contentious process into a productive dialogue, fostering trust between the developer and the community.
The website successfully reached a broad audience, capturing valuable feedback that helped inform the final application. The comprehensive reporting and data compilation showcased the level of community engagement, demonstrating a robust and well-managed public consultation process.
This project with SevenHomes is a perfect example of how a collaborative, thoughtful design approach can lead to a great outcome for all stakeholders. The client saw the value firsthand, leading to this fantastic review:
"Anna was fantastic to work with. She invested the time researching my company to offer the right solutions. She performed the work with great accuracy but also consulted, providing alternatives. I will be working with Anna going forward and would not hesitate to recommend her."
I love collaborating with clients who are passionate about their work and are looking for a true partner in the design process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do you approach a project like this? Every project begins with a deep dive into the client's needs and the project's unique challenges. My process involves collaborative research, strategic design, and continuous consultation to ensure the final output is not only beautiful but also effective and goal-oriented.
Do you handle both digital and print materials? Yes. As seen in the Ashbury project, a cohesive approach across all channels is key. I specialize in creating unified design suites, from digital platforms like websites to physical assets such as print boards and leaflets, ensuring a consistent and professional message.
How do you ensure the design helps with community engagement? My goal is to make complex information accessible. By simplifying technical plans with clear visuals and using an approachable tone, I empower the public to understand the proposals and provide meaningful, informed feedback. Good design is a tool for transparency and trust.
Could your next project benefit from a strategic design approach?
[A clear CTA button here: "Let's work together" or "Contact me about your next project".]