This paper presents a game-based approach to represent diverse stakeholder requirements within human-centred design processes. This is considered with respect to the particular challenges of sustainability and well-being contexts where there are competing priorities that must be considered to achieve fair, equitable and responsible design outcomes.

Typical human-centred design approaches are reviewed, outlining the necessity of contextualising the community of users present in any design context prior to undertaking primary research. This is then framed with respect to the sustainability agenda, where motivating positive action and connecting us to nature are essential for planetary and individual health. Barriers, including resistance to change, stakeholder expectations, communication barriers and resource constraints are then outlined.

The benefits of a game-based approach in response to these are set out and illustrated through the design and development of a game entitled ‘Mosaic Landscapes’ that invites players to take on the role of co-planner in a healthcare estate. The challenge lies in making the most appropriate design choice for the selected scenario, whilst considering the physical boundary of the board and proximity to other landscape elements selected.

The paper concludes by providing a framework for the connection of theory to practice in a game format that makes use of physical interaction to help individuals articulate their requirements in a vivid way. These have implications for the future delivery of human-centred design education in healthcare contexts and beyond.