Launch of Spaces for Deliberation

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Join DemocracyNext for the launch of “Spaces for deliberation: Eight spatial qualities for designing deliberative assemblies”, a new paper by Democracy Next’s Cities Programme Lead James MacDonald-Nelson, and research fellow Gustav Kjær Vad Nielsen.

Through interviews with practitioners from Canada, Colombia, Belgium, Denmark, Australia, and the USA, this research explores some key spatial qualities for successful citizen deliberation.

In this special event, the authors will describe their research on :

• How lighting conditions affect participant energy,
• How acoustic properties influence group discussions,
• Why proximity between different spaces matters for assembly flow.

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They will also detail the tension between symbolic locations (like parliament buildings) and more flexible, neutral environments. Learn more about the diverse approaches; from using university campuses and cultural centres, to repurposing historic buildings with flexible furniture arrangements.

Hear from practitioners as they share how they balance practical needs with creating welcoming atmospheres through thoughtful material choices, decorative elements, and spatial arrangements.

Whether you’re organising citizens’assemblies or interested in democratic innovation, this conversation offers insights for creating environments where diverse citizens can effectively deliberate on society’s challenges.