Kounkuey Design Initiative is a community development and design nonprofit. We partner with under-resourced communities to advance equity and activate the unrealized potential in their neighborhoods and cities.
who we are
we are a team of landscape architects, urban planners, civil engineers, architects, community organizers, and researchers working around the world across four service areas.
design + build
we work with under-resourced communities to design and build "productive public spaces," integrating basic infrastructure, open space, and programming to meet social, economic, and environmental needs.
plan + program
we help residents create plans that advance their long-term visions for equitable communities. we co-design and implement programs that generate income, energize culture, build capacity, and activate our built works.
research + test
we fill clear gaps in knowledge and create a basis for effective and equitable development by working with communities and academic partners to design and deliver rigorous action research projects.
advocate + educate
we leverage our built work, networks, and research to shape policy alongside communities, governments, and universities while promoting community-driven design through teaching, talks, and publications.