FAQs

What is IF/ Design Labs?

IF/ stands for Intraurban Futures—the possible futures within a city or urban area. It is an independent design think tank that explores how imagination can shape more inclusive, joyful, and resilient urban environments. We develop frameworks, toolkits, and strategic design processes to help reimagine how places evolve and who they serve.

What does IF/ do?

Our work combines speculative design with practical strategy. We:

  • Lead urban visioning and design research

  • Run workshops to support collective imagination and engagement

  • Develop public toolkits like the Place Literacy Toolkit

  • Collaborate on themes such as social infrastructure, climate futures, and civic joy

  • Support long-term, systems-based thinking in urban planning and development

Is IF/ part of IF_DO?

No. IF/ and IF_DO are independent organisations. While we share common leadership and values—and sometimes collaborate—IF/ (Intraurban Futures) is a distinct entity with its own identity, mission, and structure. IF/ focuses on research, visioning, and the future of cities, while IF_DO is an architectural practice focused on project delivery.

Is IF/ a nonprofit?

Yes. IF/ is incorporated as IF Design Labs CIC, a nonprofit Community Interest Company Limited by Guarantee. This means we reinvest any surplus into our social mission and operate for public benefit.

Who is IF/ for?

We work with:

  • Local authorities and public bodies

  • Developers and masterplanners

  • Cultural and educational institutions

  • Community organisations and social enterprises

  • Funders, research partners, and NGOs

  • Designers, strategists, and urban change-makers

What makes IF/ different?

IF/ blends imagination and action. We believe in asking better questions and visualising better futures—but we also focus on how to make them happen. We take a systems view of place, design frameworks for action, and develop tools that empower people to engage meaningfully in shaping their environments.

What is the mission of IF/?

To inspire and empower people to reimagine urban futures and create places where communities and nature thrive together.

What are IF/ Design Labs?

Design Labs are thematic programmes within IF/ that focus on specific urban challenges. Each Lab combines research, public engagement, and prototyping. Our first lab—Place Literacy—helps people understand how places work and imagine what they could become. More labs are in development.

What is the Place Literacy Toolkit?

The Place Literacy Toolkit is a creative resource developed by IF/’s Place Literacy Lab to support collaborative conversations about place. It is designed to help individuals and groups reflect on their environments and imagine new possibilities—bridging the gap between awareness and action.

Where is IF/ based?

IF/ is based in London, UK, but we work across the country and internationally. Our work is grounded in place but shaped by global conversations around cities, systems, and futures.

Can IF/ help with strategy or funding applications?

Yes. We often support partners with early-stage strategic thinking, concept development, funding bids, and feasibility studies—particularly where imagination, participation, and systems thinking are needed.

How does IF/ approach imagination in design?

Imagination is central to our method. We use speculative prompts, visioning tools, visual storytelling, and participatory processes to unlock new ideas about how cities and communities could evolve. Our work asks: What if things were different—and how could we get there?

How can I work with IF/?

We offer a range of ways to collaborate:

  • Commission us for strategic design, research, or facilitation

  • Partner on funding bids or long-term programmes

  • Invite us to run workshops or speak at your event

  • Support or co-develop one of our Design Labs

  • License or co-create custom versions of our toolkits