What does meaningful transformation look like in practice? And how can real experiences help shape more inclusive, resilient, and future-oriented systems?
These were some of the key questions explored during a recent conversation with Hanna Szemző and Kata Kepes from the Metropolitan Research Institute (MRI), leaders of Work Package 2 Systematizing the Value-Based Approach within the REDESIGN project and coordinators of the upcoming Inspirational Case Studies Compendium.
The discussion offered an inside look into the thinking behind the case studies initiative, not simply as a collection of examples, but as a strategic tool to support learning, reflection, and systemic change across the project’s ecosystem.
From examples to inspiration
During the interview, Hanna and Kata reflected on why case studies matter in collaborative European projects like REDESIGN. Beyond documenting good practices and exciting challenges, inspirational case studies can act as bridges between theory and implementation, helping organisations and stakeholders connect abstract concepts with real-world experiences.
The goal of the compendium is therefore not only to showcase successful initiatives, but also to capture the complexity behind transformation processes: the challenges encountered, the decisions taken, and the lessons learned along the way.
As highlighted during the discussion, creating meaningful case studies requires balancing precision with openness, building a shared framework while leaving room for refinement, adaptation, and dialogue among partners.
A flexible and collaborative methodology
The development of the compendium follows a collaborative and qualitative research approach. Rather than applying one rigid structure to all case studies, the REDESIGN team is working closely with researchers and partners to adapt the process to the specific characteristics of each initiative.
The selected case studies differ significantly in scale, organisation, context, and focus. Some are community gardens, others educational spaces, local markets, or initiatives experimenting with new governance and food production models. Because of this diversity, the methodology combines a shared framework with flexibility. In some cases, information such as volunteer numbers, funding structures, or demographic context may be relevant. In others, the emphasis may instead be placed on governance models, community dynamics, or organisational challenges.
One of the strongest messages emerging from the exchange was the collaborative nature of the work itself. The development of the case studies is being shaped through continuous dialogue, workshops, and iterative refinement among partners.
Shared challenges and emerging patterns
Although each initiative is unique, several recurring themes are already emerging from the comparative work. Among the most common challenges identified so far are securing sustainable funding, maintaining volunteer engagement, and navigating relationships with municipalities and local policy frameworks.
At the same time, the case studies are revealing interesting thematic clusters and connections between initiatives, particularly around community gardens, educational spaces, and nonprofit models.
These similarities and differences will contribute to the comparative analysis accompanying the compendium and may later help users navigate the material according to shared challenges, themes, or solutions
Addressing emerging challenges
The conversation also touched upon the evolving challenges that organisations and communities are currently facing. From navigating uncertainty to fostering collaboration across different contexts, the speakers emphasised the importance of developing practical and relatable resources that can inspire action rather than simply describe outcomes.
The upcoming compendium aims to contribute exactly to this effort: offering a diverse collection of experiences that can spark reflection, support mutual learning, and encourage stakeholders to imagine new pathways for transformation.
A Collaborative Process
As we move forward, the Inspirational Case Studies Compendium is expected to become a valuable resource for practitioners, policymakers, researchers, and communities interested in rethinking how sustainable and inclusive change can be designed and implemented in practice. More updates on the compendium and the outcomes of WP2 will follow in the coming months.
For more information, visit www.horizon-redesign.eu or contact us at contact@horizon-redesign.eu
