Beyond the Ludic City: Design and Social Innovation in Dublin

Beyond the Ludic City: Design and Social Innovation in Dublin examines the intersection of design, urban space, and social innovation in the context of Dublin. The article argues that design can serve as more than an aesthetic or commercial practice, functioning instead as a catalyst for civic engagement, social cohesion, and imaginative urban interventions. Drawing on examples from Dublin’s evolving urban landscape, it highlights how playful, or “ludic,” approaches to design can re-activate public spaces, foster community participation, and address social challenges. The work situates these initiatives within broader debates about the role of creativity in urban policy, the need for socially responsive planning, and the potential of design to generate meaningful social change. By connecting design practice to social innovation, the article advocates for urban strategies that prioritise inclusivity, participation, and experimentation, suggesting that Dublin’s cultural and civic vitality depends on embracing these approaches to shape a more socially and spatially engaged city.