Check je plek

Introduction

In 2024, the OPUSH Delft team kicked off an exciting Citizen Science project called "Check je plek," bringing kids into the conversation about how urban spaces can better serve their needs. This project, led by TU Delft in partnership with the DOK/OPEN Delft Public Library, local co-design studio Blok 74, and in communication with researchers from Utrecht University, invited children to share their thoughts on Delft’s city spaces and even help redesign their library.

Background

Delft OPUSH partners TU Delft and DOK, the local public library, are both interested to establishing a long-term cooperation on citizen science experimentation. After initial discussions, both parties agreed on a shared pilot project: redesigning the library space based on the needs and preferences of its young users, specifically children aged 7 to 12.

Concept Development

The project’s concept came from a similar experiment at the University Museum Utrecht, where researchers Kathrine C.E. van den Bogert and Gijs van Campenhout wanted to see how kids viewed and valued urban spaces (see here). Initially, OPUSH Delft had a different idea — a nature-monitoring project where kids would track local wildlife. But after talking with potential partners and looking at the community’s needs, they pivoted to urban spaces. Kids, they realized, have a lot to say about the places they play, study, and hang out, and including them in the conversation could offer new insights. Plus, with a library renovation in the works, it was the perfect time to ask children to share their vision for this public space.

Research Design

The project combined data collection with hands-on, creative design activities. First, kids mapped their favorite places in Delft, explaining why they loved these spots. This mapping helped identify what kids value in public spaces. For the library redesign, the team used brainstorming, mapping, and sketching activities, giving the kids tools to express their ideas. This participatory approach not only gathered data but helped the children feel like co-creators in reimagining their environment. Throughout the project, the team learned that a balance of structured tasks and open-ended creativity allowed the children to really engage and express themselves.

Workshop Activities

The workshop involved a group of "DOK designers," kids aged 7-12 who meet regularly at the library. During the sessions, they pointed their favorite spots in the city and shared what makes these places special, whether this was a play area or a quiet park. This activity got the kids discussing about what they want from public spaces, opening up a discussion on urban design in a way they could relate to.

Next, their attention was turned to the library itself, specifically the floor area where they themselves meet regularly. Working in two groups, the kids mapped out ideas for how the library could be more welcoming, fun, and functional — a space that supports studying, playing, and hanging out. Under the guidance of Blok 74, they drew layouts and brainstormed features they thought would be useful, which TU Delft researchers later transformed into visual designs. A key lesson here was that kids had thoughtful, practical ideas, that should be recorded and taken into account by the professional designers.

Conclusions

"Check je plek" showed just how valuable it can be to include kids in urban planning. They gave fresh, honest insights on what they want from public spaces, and the library project helped them feel connected to their city in a new way. Going forward, DOK Delft has a new model for engaging the community in Citizen Science, and this project opened up possibilities for more kid-led initiatives.

The main takeaway? Kids aren’t passive users of public spaces — they’re creative, insightful contributors. "Check je plek" proved that giving young people a voice in city planning can lead to designs that are fun, functional, and full of heart. It’s a lesson worth keeping in mind as Delft and other cities think about how to make urban spaces that truly serve everyone.