Design games are like jigsaw puzzles. They are a highly visual way of allowing people to explore physical design options for a site or internal space. They are particularly useful for designing parks and room layouts and can also be used for land-use planning. They can be used in isolation or as part of a broader participation process.

A base map of a site or room is prepared.

Cut-out pieces representing items that could be incorporated are made to the same scale. Materials for making pieces are kept at hand to allow new items to be made as desired.

Individuals or groups move pieces around until they are happy with the design, which is then photographed.

Layouts produced by different individuals or groups are discussed and analysed as a basis for drawing up sketch designs and costings.