Chris Laing is an Architectural Designer, Activist, and Consultant, known for his advocacy work within the Deaf community. As the founder of Signstrokes and Deaf Architecture Front (DAF), launched in June 2023, he pioneers initiatives bridging the gap between the Deaf community and the architectural industry.

In a world where community and belonging are vital, my curated collection for the 2024 Open House Festival celebrates spaces that nurture togetherness, connection, and empowerment. Emphasising community hubs as more than structures, they catalyse connection and growth. Each chosen example within this collection embodies not only strong community values but also showcases beautiful design, elevating the very essence of communal spaces. Through this collection, my desire is to spark meaningful conversations around the transformative potential of community spaces, particularly for those often marginalised, championing inclusivity in architectural design.