What is Applied Research Creative Studio?
Applied Research Creative Studio, or a-r-c-s, is all about making inclusive and sustainable places. It’s a creative hub that believes business can be a real force for change. The studio puts people and place right at the heart of everything it does, knowing full well that to see change, you’ve got to be the change yourself. It’s not just about ideas—it’s about action, community, and environment coming together to shape better spaces.
Main Benefits of Applied Research Creative Studio
Here’s a quick snapshot of what makes a-r-c-s stand out:
- B Corp score: an impressive 98.6, showing serious commitment to social and environmental performance
- Focus on placemaking that centers community and environment
- Expertise spanning strategy & place branding, retail leasing & activation, art & culture, communities, public realm activation, and content creation
- Strong belief that business can drive positive change
- Dedicated to creating better places for both people and the planet
Placemaking as a Core Philosophy
Placemaking isn’t just a buzzword here—it’s the foundation of a-r-c-s’s approach. The studio has developed and tested new ways to bring communities and environments into the spotlight, making sure every project reflects the unique character and needs of its place. It’s about crafting spaces that feel alive, welcoming, and sustainable, where people want to gather, connect, and thrive.
Expertise Across Multiple Disciplines
Applied Research Creative Studio offers a broad range of skills that come together to create meaningful impact. From strategy and place branding that shape how a place is perceived, to retail leasing and activation that bring vibrancy and economic life, to art and culture initiatives that enrich community identity—this studio covers it all. Plus, their work in public realm activation and content creation ensures that every project tells a compelling story.
Beliefs That Drive the Studio
The core beliefs at a-r-c-s are simple but powerful: business can be a force for change; people and place truly matter; and change starts with oneself. These ideas aren’t just slogans—they guide every decision and project. This mindset fuels a passion for creating spaces that are inclusive, sustainable, and genuinely beneficial to communities and the environment alike.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
Connecting Community, Culture, and Creativity
At its core, Applied Research Creative Studio is about connection—linking community voices with cultural expression and creative design. It’s a place where art meets strategy, where culture activates public spaces, and where every project is a chance to build something meaningful. The studio’s work invites people to engage, participate, and feel a sense of belonging, making places not just better, but truly alive.
