Community Participatory Design Methods under Augmented Reality: the Revitalization of the Waterfront Space in Huanxiufang community

Abstract As China's urban development shifts towards stock renewal, the transformation of community public spaces increasingly prioritizes public participation as the true users. Concurrently, augmented reality technology offers fresh perspectives on traditional participatory design models. This paper explores two main questions: how to integrate new technologies into traditional participatory design and how to develop strategies for renovating old villages. A feasibility assessment of AR participatory methods was conducted through quantitative experiments, alongside empirical research on AR participatory models based on practical evidence. The theoretical research section of this paper primarily uses literature analysis and case studies to examine the foundational theories of participatory design, emphasizing how augmented reality can optimize its components and methods. It also integrates research on AR technology to assess its applicability in participatory design. Finally, the paper discusses the theoretical basis for using AR as a participatory design method, supported by case studies and literature. Subsequently, the paper extracts strategies and methods for AR participatory design from two participatory design cases of old village renovations in Guangzhou, and conducts relevant feasibility experiments. The study identifies six spatial element indicators (spatial function, layout, scale, color, interface, greenery) and six subjective evaluation indicators (universality, ease of learning, accuracy of expression, engagement, satisfaction, utility). A quantitative comparative evaluation of traditional participatory models and AR participatory models was conducted through correlation analysis and frequency analysis of these indicators, and the feasibility of applying AR technology in participatory design was validated through public satisfaction comparisons. Finally, through specific practical demonstrations, the above strategies and methods were applied to the renovation of the Huanxiufang community in Guangzhou, further optimizing four node spaces and the road system within the site, thereby validating the effectiveness of the AR participatory model. Based on design outcomes and public feedback, the paper offers suggestions and prospects for the methodological pathways and processes.