→ I’ve learned that even though Carrington is a small area there is still a diverse selection of businesses and personalities.’

→ ‘It was difficult to try to remember details of events from years ago.’

→ ‘A fascinating project. I would be interested to see whether this leads to any redevelopment of the area other than the planting that is already scheduled.’

→ ‘I saw the real value that a project like this could offer to Sneinton residents and groups.’

→ ‘I was bowled over by the enthusiasm from young people who interacted with the furniture at the unveiling on the festival.’

→ ‘I learnt that having a strong, dedicated team helps achieve the goals of the community. Even when resources are low, sheer determination can help move things along. I also learnt a little about the architectural design process at NTU.’

→ ‘Having so few resources was very difficult – both materials and students to help out with the project. I think the timing of the project which fell during the summer break added to this problem.’

→ ‘The most unexpected thing that happened was the uncertainty some people had with the power we were offering to them to shape our design ideas.’

→ ‘It was a surprise to find out that many of my perceptions of Sneinton were wrong.’

→ ‘I feel like those who were engaged in these community projects are more likely to take pride in their surroundings than those who don’t.’

→ ‘I enjoy how this project encourages us to be pro-active in the community and ask questions; as when we get older, our curiosity and our boldness in seeking knowledge are sometimes quenched.’

→ ‘I feel personally this project has opened my eyes a lot on the areas of Nottingham that are hardly known or used.’

→ ‘Visiting the places was like a box with hidden treasures; as the more I learnt about the people in the area and the different things they do, the more I found appreciation for their community spirit.’

→ ‘Trying to figure out how to satisfy the community’s needs as a whole was difficult; while some people disliked one design, another person would really enjoy it.’

→ ‘I had no idea that the final scheme was a physical installation. As a university student opportunities like this are very rare. Additionally I have met several creative and well-known international artists, which was very interesting and inspiring.’

→ ‘I feel as though one of the most unexpected things for me during this project was the public reaction at Sneinton festival. In my mind I knew people would take interest in the project but seeing some of the excitement and gratitude people had during the festival was rewarding.’

→ ‘I learnt a lot during this process. This was my first real insight into the life of an architect and I was amazed by the amount of thought and consideration that has to be put into project for a community.’

→ 'One of the most difficult aspects of the project was constructing the actual structure. We had a lot of requirements to meet and ideas that needed to be refined. We were also constricted by our resources so it was essential to take everything into consideration and build a structure that was everything the community needed it to be.'

→ ‘Realising how many small things are actually going on in our communities without our knowledge or acknowledgement was quite unexpected.’

→ ‘I learned that mapping is simply recording and the project needs more of an output to affect positive change.’

→ ‘Dealing with the finances and expenses of a project like this can become burdensome.’

→ ‘I had not done anything like this before – it’s a very different way of thinking and designing by running a series of activities to devise the brief from the community’s needs.’

→ ‘I was surprised how difficult it can be to engage students and the community in the project.’

→ ‘This is an important stage in making the places that people live more cohesive now, and improving them for the future.’

→ ‘Good architecture responds to people (users, clients, the public, stakeholders) so developing skills in listening to people and developing a conversation with them is vital for architects. Good architecture also responds to place, so “getting under the skin” of particular places is essential.’

→ ‘I learned some good techniques for community engagement, particularly the value of simple exercises that people can complete to start the process of engagement easily and the value of physical “props” – physical items other than just pictures, maps, or documents in getting people to engage and talk.’