HD3RD SPACES

The HD3RD Spaces project aimed to build a digital directory showcasing free, inclusive, and non-partisan community spaces and events in Halifax and Dartmouth. The platform was designed to strengthen social connection by providing an accessible, people-first resource for local residents, particularly those seeking alternatives to commercial or institutional spaces.

Role
Web Design, Web Development, Illustration

Live Project
hd3rdspaces.ca

Client
RISE - Apathy is Boring

Timeline

May 2025 - June 2025

Problem Statement:

Many residents in Halifax and Dartmouth don’t know where to find safe, welcoming, and no-cost places to gather, host events, or build community. Existing platforms are scattered or difficult to navigate, and marginalized communities often lack visibility in traditional listings.

Key Challenges:

Lack of centralized, easily navigable directory
Difficulty distinguishing truly free and inclusive spaces
Limited resources for development and promotion

Solution:

Design an inviting, mobile-friendly site that maps and lists community spaces

Build trust through warm visuals and clear, people-focused messaging
Empower users to submit spaces and explore by location and category
Keep it easy to update and accessible organizers

Project Role:

I was the designer, developer, and illustrator for this project, and I with the RISE team to discover what requirements they had for their site.

Below are the tools used for creating this project:

Figma for wireframing and prototype

Google My Maps for embedding a browsable visual map
Squarespace for live build
Procreate for creating custom illustrations

Research & Discovery

Primary Inputs:

Conversations with organizers and local space users
Review of existing mapping tools (Google Maps, municipal directories)
Prior experience working with community initiatives and youth programs

Insights:

Users wanted a visual-first experience
It was important to define key terms like free, inclusive, and non-partisan up front.
Trust signals (warm visuals, illustrations, local language).

Site Map:

Home (logo, map embed, directory, Instagram feed, funder acknowledgment)

About (mission, illustration, core values)
Directory (filter by area + category)
Submit a Space form
FAQ (terms like “third spaces,” how submissions work)
Contact

Features

Interactive map embedded with location tags
Directory view with tags for location (Halifax, Dartmouth) and categories (Art, Nature, Third Space, etc.)
Submit a Space form for users to
Custom illustrations showing diverse people engaging in community activities
Responsive design for mobile-first access