The Urban Studio

Our mission is to advance design thinking for equitable and sustainable Urbanism

The Urban Studio empowers communities and inspires leaders to imagine what is possible when cities are designed to put people first. Leveraging our deep expertise in urban design and meaningful participatory processes to advance equitable climate solutions, we support public-led initiatives that strengthen community resilience.

We collaborate in developing community-led projects by co-creating ideas, making connections, seeking funding and elevating community voices.

Much of our current work is in collaboration with our partner organization, the Community Design Lab whose mission is to democratize design through art, service learning and community-led projects.

The Community Design Lab is a Maryland-based nonprofit that democratizes design through art, service learning, and community-led projects. We bring people together to co-create greener, healthier neighborhoods, especially in communities where access to design and nature has been limited.

Our programs blend design, art, and environmental education. Through the Design+Build program, students and residents co-design and plant real conservation landscapes. Creative Mischief pop-ups spark curiosity through art and nature play, and Second Bloom workshops invite adults and seniors to reconnect with creativity and place.