[CONFERENCE] Making (in) Commons - Distributed Design

The event brings together the global Distributed Design community, the hyper-local Xarxa Ensemble network, and the Make-a-thek project to explore how collaborative, regenerative, and community-driven practices emerge at different scales. It provides a shared space for networking, knowledge exchange, and showcasing projects, while celebrating the release of the Driving Design trilogy as a collective milestone for distributed practices.

The programme will open with an introduction to projects from the Distributed Design Platform and follow with a panel discussion, framing the event around the idea of a commons of practice, a space where global and local initiatives converge through shared knowledge, skills, and collaboration. This conversation, moderated by Distributed Design, will invite guests to discuss how craft, materials, and communities intersect across networks, and will also feature the launch of the Driving Design trilogy.

16th October 2025

Distributed Design Conference  | 16:00 – 18:00  |  IAAC Main Hall

Panel Discussion: “Commons of Practice – Connecting Communities through Materials and Space” Hosted by the Distributed Design Platform

This panel discussion will explore the concept of the third place as a commons of practice – a shared space where knowledge, skills, materials, and communities come together. Bringing together members of the Distributed Design Platform, the session will explore how local craft, circular materials, makerspaces, and community hubs connect across scales and create networks beyond.

DD Book Launch  | 17:30 – 18:00  |  IAAC Main Hall

The event will also celebrate the launch of the Driving Design trilogy (Volumes I - III), showcasing systemic, collaborative, and regenerative approaches within the Distributed Design network. Participants will leave with insights into how shared practices, skills, and knowledge can generate meaningful social, cultural, and ecological impact across communities and networks.

Next will be ENSEMBLE Network Event Launch  | 18:30 – 21:30

Immediately after, the focus shifts to the launch of the Xarxa d’Espais Productius i Col·laboratius ENSEMBLE , which will host its own roundtables and exhibition. This continuation highlights hyper-local practices and prototypes developed within the network, offering participants the chance to test ideas, explore future collaborations, and connect with the community in Barcelona.

Please sign up here for the evening programme hosted by ENSEMBLE Network.