Stage 3 of 7
Methodology
Stage 3
Identify assets with the Cardinal Sources
Purpose of this stage
Map the existing assets that generate Character, Engagement and Care in your place.
The Cardinal Sources are the four primary sources from which Joy emerges within a city: Heritage, Culture, Community and Generosity. Rather than beginning our design process with problems, they encourage us to begin with assets—the people, places, stories and qualities that already exist and give a place its identity.
By understanding and strengthening these sources, regeneration can build upon what makes a place unique, avoid unintentional harm and gentrification, and create a positive cycle that strengthens Character, Engagement and Care.
3
Framework or tool used
Cardinal Sources Map: Heritage, Culture, Community, Generosity
Key Framing Questions of the Cardinal Sources:
Heritage
Who have we been? What do we carry forward?
Culture
Who are we together? What are we doing now?
Community
Who is here? Who is making things happen?
Generosity
Who is helping? Who do we share with?
Download the Cardinal Sources Mapping Worksheet and collectively map all of the Cardinal sources existing in your street. This will grow over many sessions as you connect to local organisations, see activity through wandering practises and meet new people. So, keep it somewhere visible and shared so members of the design team can add to it at any point.
Downloadable worksheet
Cardinal Sources mapping worksheet
Reflection questions
1.
Which Cardinal Sources feel particularly strong?
2.
Which assets are underfunded or overlooked and therefore need additional nurturing?
3.
Which Cardinal Sources have the most impact on human activity here?
Theory & References