How can design contribute to a more inclusive, sustainable and human-centred future? During Dutch Design Week 2026, the Civic Interaction Design research group at the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (AUAS) is taking part in several events, workshops and exhibitions. From rethinking the role of designers to exploring digital public spaces, citizen participation in AI and our relationship with solar energy, discover where you can find our researchers and their work.
Designing digital public spaces
As part of ClickNL’s The Power of Design and Transitions programme, we present insights from our research project Designing the Stack. The project explores how the creative industries can contribute to developing digital public spaces based on public values. Using Mentaal.nl as a case study, we investigate how design can help create safe and trusted online environments for mental health information and peer support. Read more about the CLICKNL event
Bewoners-in-the-loop: Deciding together about AI in the city
Wednesday 21 October | Workshop and exhibition
How can citizens have a meaningful say in the development and use of AI in their cities? Our colleague Tessa Steenkamp hosts the workshop Citizens-in-the-loop: Deciding Together about AI in the City. Building on insights from the Human Values for Smarter Cities research project, the workshop introduces practical methods for involving residents in decisions about AI in urban public spaces. The research has also resulted in a handbook offering tools and approaches for developing AI based on public values. Unable to attend the workshop? An accompanying exhibition at Stadslab presents key findings and examples from the project. Read more about Bewoners-in-the-loop
Sensing Solar: Exploring our relationship with solar energy
At the Fashion Tech Farm, our colleague Angella Mackey presents Solar Chimes, an installation developed as part of her research project Sensing Solar. The project explores how design can help us rethink our relationship with solar energy, making renewable energy more tangible and inviting new ways of experiencing and understanding it. Read more about Solar Chimes
Discover our work at Dutch Design Week
Through these activities, the Civic Interaction Design research group brings together design research, technology and public values. Join us at Dutch Design Week to explore how design can shape the future of our cities, digital environments and everyday lives.