Plan NH is proud to announce the 30th anniversary of its signature Community Design Charrette Program, which has been helping towns and cities across the Granite State envision healthier, more vibrant futures since 1996.
The very first documented Plan NH charrette took place on January 26 and 27, 1996, launching what would become a cornerstone program for the organization. Over the last three decades, Plan NH and its dedicated volunteers have completed 85 charrettes across 69 communities of all sizes, from small villages to downtown centers.
A Plan NH charrette is a unique, hands-on planning process that brings together a diverse team of volunteer professionals from the fields of architecture, planning, engineering, landscape architecture, housing, economic development, and more, to work side-by-side with residents and community leaders. Over the course of two days, the team:
- Visits the target area (such as a downtown, neighborhood, or key community space).
- Encourages and engages in open conversations with community members and stakeholders.
- Develops recommendations and ideas tailored to the community’s needs, informed both by what municipal officials and residents have seen and shared and by their professional expertise and knowledge of trends.
The result is a roadmap of possibilities that communities can use to guide future decisions and investments.
“Charrettes are about more than design—they’re about listening, connecting, and creating a shared vision for the future,” said Tiffany Tononi McNamara, Plan NH Executive Director. “For 30 years, these conversations have inspired communities to take action toward livable places that support people, the economy, and the environment.”
On average, Plan NH facilitates 3 to 4 charrettes each year, responding to requests from communities eager for fresh ideas and outside perspectives. The impact of these sessions can be seen statewide, from revitalized downtowns to improved public spaces and stronger community engagement.
Throughout 2026, Plan NH will highlight past projects, share stories from volunteers and communities, and celebrate the legacy of this collaborative program.
About Plan NH:
Established in 1989, Plan NH is a 501(c)3 organization, with a growing membership of planners, designers, builders, and others. We have a mission to “foster excellence in planning, design and development of New Hampshire’s built environment” and a vision of vibrant communities across the state. Through programs like design charrettes and educational initiatives, Plan NH encourages towns and cities across New Hampshire to think holistically about their future growth and development. For more information about the charrette program and to explore past reports, visit https://plannh.org/programs/charrettes.