Merging Insights from Rural Revitalization and Quality at AthabascaU

Processes & policies

News from Athabasca University’s RAIC Centre for Architecture: Merging Insights from Rural Revitalization and Quality in the Built Environment

The contours of rural communities across western Canada are continually being reshaped. As they grapple with challenges of economic sustainability, housing, and infrastructural evolution, numerous strategies are rising to the fore, aiming to rejuvenate these pockets both economically and culturally. At the heart of this change are two significant initiatives: the "Communities in Transition" project supported by the Social Sciences & Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) and the recent community round tables organized with our valued partners on “Enhancing Rural Real Estate” supported by the Alberta Real Estate Foundation (AREF).

Reflecting on Enhancing Rural Real Estate Community Round Tables

During these sessions, attendees highlighted the importance of leveraging the unique attributes inherent to their communities. Topics ranged from tapping into cultural heritage and local industries to capitalizing on strategic geographic advantages. However, there was also an open acknowledgment of challenges, with housing, seasonal fluctuations in tourism, and the need for economic diversification often taking center stage.

A key theme that emerged was the collective push towards sustainable initiatives. Conversations veered towards the potential of community gardens, the role of rural greenhouses, and the intriguing possibilities presented by regenerative design.

Communities in Transition: Lighting the Way Forward

The Communities in Transition initiative was designed to counter declining trends in rural regions. By identifying, documenting, and amplifying best practices from various corners, the project embodies hope for communities eager for change and growth. By fostering networking, increasing data accessibility, and adopting a cross-disciplinary stance, the initiative is already making strides in the direction of rejuvenation.

Focusing on Quality in the Built Environment: Upcoming Round Table Discussion on October 10th, 2023

In the midst of these transformative efforts, the emphasis on Quality in the Built Environment stands out prominently. Athabasca University's RAIC Centre for Architecture continues its mission of revitalizing rural communities with an upcoming roundtable discussion, entitled "Quality in Canada's Built Environment: Seeking Equity, Social Value and Sustainability."

This discussion emerges as a pivotal moment in the journey, bridging insights from past community sessions with the "Communities in Transition" and the “Enhancing Rural Real Estate” initiatives. Participants will delve deep into defining quality in regenerative rural communities and brainstorming roadmaps to achieve this vision.

The shared vision is clear: crafting communities that are socially just, culturally rich, ecologically restorative, holistically healthy, and economically sustainable. By bringing together a diverse group of knowledge holders, frontline workers, community leaders, and professionals from architects to scholars, this discussion is set to illuminate innovative pathways for rejuvenating Canada’s regional and rural built environments.

For more info on the Revitalizing Rural Communities, click here.

To learn more about the research site led by Athabasca University, click here.