Crisis x Canva: Skylight Croydon refurb

At the end of last year, our amazing partners at Canva, the world’s leading all-in-one platform for visual communication and collaboration, joined us to fund, redesign and refit our basement space at Croydon Skylight as part of Canva’s Step Two Plan.

“Seeing the space transform and knowing the impact it would have on Crisis’ Skylight members was so rewarding! I felt very grateful to have the chance to see and learn about all the amazing work Crisis is already doing - an absolutely fab experience all round!” – Verity, Canva volunteer

Ruby Kerr, Skylight Croydon explains the vision for the project:

“Crisis Skylight Croydon supports people experiencing or at risk of homelessness to rebuild their lives and leave homelessness behind. Skylight centres help people find a home, apply for jobs, and take care of their health and wellbeing.

The basement space of our Skylight centre in Croydon was previously used for technical skills workshops. Because of its unique layout and fittings, the space was no longer fit for purpose once these classes ended in 2023 and it needed a complete overhaul. We partnered with Canva, as part of their Empowered Spaces program to fund, redesign and refit the space so that we can continue to support people from across London with our vital services.

We worked closely with Canva and our members to design a flexible space that meets their diverse interests and needs. Canva used Skylight member feedback to draft the initial layout, refining the design with ongoing input from members and staff until it worked for everyone. With their design expertise and incredible volunteers, Canva helped to bring the space to life—while ensuring it continues to adapt to our evolving needs.”

1. Can you explain the importance of psychologically informed environment design in this project?

“Psychologically Informed Environment (PIE) design creates spaces and services that support the psychological needs of the people they serve. When we use this approach, individuals are better able to access and effectively engage with our services.

To design a space that met our members’ needs, both physically and psychologically, we first needed to understand how they’d use it, which colours, features, and furniture would make it welcoming, and how we could improve access to ensure it was comfortable for everyone.

Before its renovation, the basement was dark and uninviting, so during the design phase, we focused on how the new space should make people feel. We aimed to create a welcoming, safe and accessible environment for our members and staff. We chose colours that brightened the space and added flexible seating, giving members the freedom to arrange it based on their needs.”

 

1. What kind of events do you plan to host in the space?

“We designed the new basement space to be flexible, allowing it to accommodate a variety of activities and events. We plan to host health and wellbeing initiatives, exhibitions showcasing our members’ work, and employability workshops run by local businesses.

Alongside the basement, our new recording studio will allow us to produce audio recordings and explore sound in creative arts classes— it’s exciting to expand what we offer at our centre.”

Canva's eager volunteer squad

Maddie Hucks, Head of Europe Social Impact at Canva elaborates on the process behind the refit;

1. How do you feel Canva’s values align with this refurb project?

“Canva’s mission is to empower the world to design. Our work is guided by our Two-Step Plan: 1) to build one of the world’s most valuable companies, and 2) do the most good we can. The Canva Foundation is our main charitable arm that brings it to life.

Our Empowered Spaces program reflects one of Canva’s six values: ‘Be a force for good’ — volunteering our time, skills, and resources to uplift local communities and support those experiencing hardship.

By partnering with Crisis to transform their Skylight centre, we’re helping them expand their support for members by providing resources and expertise to create an environment that feels safe, welcoming, and familiar.

Redesigning the basement was a truly collaborative process with the Crisis team and their members. We began by visiting the space and discussing their vision, all while ensuring their community using the space were involved at every step. Our team at Canva then drafted an initial design for review and, through The Canva Foundation, funded the purchase of equipment, furniture, and furnishings.

As part of Canva’s Force for Good initiatives, twelve volunteers spent two days refurbishing the space—painting walls and work counters, assembling furniture, and dressing the room. We also partnered with Ajax Flooring Company, which generously donated 50% of the material costs, allowing us to fully carpet the space as a finishing touch.”

“The space was totally transformed—from a practical, almost industrial room into a warm and cozy place to spend time. Being part of that transformation was fun and rewarding, and I hope the new space makes a real difference for those who use it. And of course, I’ll never turn down a chance to do some flat-packing!” – Helly, Canva volunteer.

While the official launch of the new basement is set for summer 2025, the space is already having an impact. A group of members will work with a local Croydon artist and our arts tutor to create a mural through a series of workshops. This will be a key feature of the space, alongside a display of our members’ ceramics, sewing, and visual art.

If your organisation is interested in collaborating with any of our Skylights to improve facilities or explore project-based funding opportunities, get in touch with corporatepartnerships@crisis.org.uk.