By the People: Designing a Better America

A manual for challenging inequality through innovation and creativity By the People: Designing for a Better America examines how design is effectively challenging poverty and social inequality across America. The book explores current social, economic and environmental issues in America with a particular focus on marginalized and underserved communities. By the People features design projects organized into six working themes: Act, Save, Share, Live, Learn and Make. It is a true manual—in format and content—featuring design solutions that expand access to education, food, health care and affordable housing; increase social and economic inclusion; offer improved alternative transportation options, and provide a balanced approach to land use between the built and natural environments. Cooper Hewitt Curator Cynthia E. Smith traveled to post-industrial cities, urban areas impacted by natural disasters, sprawling cities, places of persistent poverty and major metropolitan regions. Her resea