Politics and the public are currently once again focusing on the socially responsible role of architecture. More and more people around the world live under unacceptable conditions, for instance in slums and shantytowns. Several architects and artists are devoting themselves to the question of how to actively contribute to solving social problems with new types of designs. By directly including users in the design and building process and working with new economic models, they have realized projects that have had profound, positive effects with just a minimum investment of money and materials: besides comprehensive urban infrastructures, this volume presents model projects such as schools, libraries, gardens, converted buildings, and art projects.

Based on twenty projects that have been implemented as well as stances taken by artists from throughout the world, this publication demonstrates how innovative design solutions can transform society.