Abstract
The aim of the research conducted by the author in 2016 and 2017, was to define the performance path for the development of public space, and namely the Stary Fordon Town Square, today’s district of Bydgodszcz, which before 1973 was an independent town. A design and conceptual programme was performed whilst stimulating the residents’ activity and in dialogue with them, together with the Design Specialization students from the UTP University of Science and Technology in Bydgoszcz. Student design and research suggestions made it possible to organise a national architectural design competition in 2017 for a Town Square design. The competition objectives were formed on the basis of research, which were used in the process of creating student concepts, which constituted an interim phase between subjectification of residents’ expectations and the final design. This method gave rise to a design of an accepted space, which was expected by all interested parties. Post factum discussions and even protests frequently seen in such undertakings were avoided by the application of the participation method in the initial phase of preparations. Nevertheless, this is the most appropriate solution for cooperation between a university and the local administration.