Community design ideas to real community
Posted by Michael van Diermen
Making a real community?, why not look at what it's going to be.
- A.I. all over from work, productivity, workflows, to things to do, to support and more
- light shows now controlled by community member (for fun), I got big idea for this
- illuminate isn't just a name of light show any more
- Robots and automation
- AI written: Choose Neighbors is a part not-for-profit startup with one idea: people should choose who they live near. Instead of being stuck in a suburb far from people you care about, it helps groups own affordable homes together and design their own community.
The "why" isn't soft — loneliness measures as a serious health risk, comparable to smoking. Homes stay affordable, with some kept free so friends can move in as needs change.
Early but real: working site and app, plans, and funding committed (currently not a lot). Looking for people to help build it properly.
AI written Roles #2:
Community builder — Connect with early members, shape the first pilot community, organise local activities.
Marketing & growth — Get Choose Neighbors in front of the people who'd want it (biggest need).
Property / location scout — Find affordable, divisible spaces — buildings, caravan parks, low-cost property — for a first pilot.
Platform developer — Build the app and site: listings, neighbour-matching, community tools.
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Roles
- Community Engagement Specialist — Facilitates interaction between online contributors and target communities, ensuring ideas align with real-world needs and feedback is collected effectively.
- Project Manager — Oversees the entire project lifecycle, from idea generation to implementation, ensuring timelines are met, resources are allocated, and communication flows smoothly.
- UX/UI Designer (for platform) — Designs and refines the collaborative platform's user experience and interface to make it intuitive and engaging for contributors and community members.
- Architect/Urban Planner (Volunteer) — Provides professional insights and guidance on the feasibility and practical application of design ideas within real physical spaces.
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Idea appraisal
An automated appraisal by builtonideas.com — guidance only.
Appraisal for: Community design ideas to real community · by Michael van Diermen
Appraiser: builtonideas.com · Jun 16, 2026
Appraisal score
This idea addresses a significant societal problem of loneliness by empowering individuals to co-design and choose their neighbors and community. While the core concept of intentional communities isn't new, integrating AI, automation, and a focus on affordability and flexibility offers a fresh approach. The project has early traction with a working site/app and some funding, but needs substantial development in marketing, property acquisition, and platform building to realize its full potential.