Who We Are

The Rural Design Project began out of a growing recognition that rural communities face unique challenges that are often overlooked in mainstream urban development practices. As rural areas experience shifts in population, economy, and environmental pressures, there is a pressing need for solutions that are designed with each individual community and community member in mind. By bringing together experts from various fields—design research, public policy, planning, architecture, development—the project aims to create innovative strategies that empower rural residents and foster resilient, thriving communities. Ultimately, the Rural Design Project seeks to bridge the gap between urban and rural development, ensuring that rural areas are equipped with the tools and resources to thrive in the 21st century.

Our mission is to foster resilience, improve quality of life, and empower rural communities through the thoughtful integration of design research methods and sustainable practices. Whether it’s revitalizing public spaces or supporting local businesses we are committed to making rural areas stronger, more vibrant, and better equipped for the future while keeping in place what makes them special.

We are here to help small rural communities navigate challenges, develop students into citizen designers through real world experience, and create research that supports these efforts. We are practitioners, teachers, and researchers who come from diverse backgrounds.