Explore our current projects positioning children and young people as active contributors in shaping discussions about architecture, design, the built environment, and sustainability.
The Little Investigators is a participatory project co-created and co-produced with the Built Environment Trust, engaging 450 primary school pupils across ten areas of London. Designed for children aged 7–10, the project invites young participants to become “little investigators” of their local neighbourhoods, exploring how they experience and understand the places where they live.
Starting with two simple questions—What do you like? and What don’t you like?—children took part in guided walks, observing, sketching, and reflecting on local landmarks and everyday spaces. They considered how these places made them feel, using words such as safe, busy, happy, or uncomfortable to express their perspectives.
Back in the classroom, pupils translated their observations into drawn maps and 3D models, combining personal experiences with creative interpretation. The project not only introduces children to architecture and urban thinking, but also highlights the value of their voices in shaping the built environment.
By foregrounding children’s perceptions, The Little Investigators reveals how young people experience their cities—offering meaningful insights into place, community, and everyday urban life.
If you think your school would be interested in hosting this workshop, please email our Head of Learning, Sandra Hedblad for more information. shedblad@buildingcentre.co.uk