Design · June 2026

Human-Centred Design: At the Heart of How Doh Eain Works

We believe that the people who use, live in, and care for spaces possess invaluable knowledge about their needs, challenges, and aspirations.

Human-Centred Design (HCD) is not simply a methodology that Doh Eain applies to projects; it is embedded in our DNA. From our earliest alley revitalisation initiatives to large-scale placemaking projects and, more recently, the construction of shelters for earthquake-affected communities, participatory design has remained central to how we work.

At its core, HCD is about putting people at the centre of decision-making. Rather than designing for communities, we design with them. We believe that the people who use, live in, and care for spaces possess invaluable knowledge about their needs, challenges, and aspirations. By actively involving community members throughout the design and implementation process, we create solutions that are more relevant, effective, and sustainable.

This approach was evident during our alley garden projects, where residents played a key role in shaping the transformation of neglected spaces into vibrant community assets. Through workshops, conversations, and collective decision-making, communities became co-creators rather than beneficiaries, fostering a strong sense of ownership and stewardship.

The same principles have guided our placemaking projects across Yangon. Whether reimagining public spaces, activating heritage buildings, or creating impactful interventions for urban infrastructure, our work begins by listening. Community voices inform every stage of the process, ensuring that interventions reflect local identity and respond to real needs.

Most recently, our earthquake response has reinforced the importance of participatory design. As we support communities in rebuilding and constructing mid-term shelters, we have prioritised engagement with affected households and local leaders.

Their experiences and insights have shaped shelter designs, construction methods, and implementation strategies, helping ensure that solutions are practical, culturally appropriate, and resilient.

By embedding Human-Centred Design into every aspect of our work, Doh Eain continues to demonstrate that meaningful and lasting change happens when communities are empowered to shape their own environments. As we look to the future, participatory design will remain a cornerstone of our approach, enabling us to build not only better spaces, but also stronger and more connected communities.