This study proposes a structured framework for cultivating a new generation of community-learning designers to support the advancement of the creative economy in Uttaradit Province. It emphasises the development of knowledge, skills, and transformative learning capacities among designers, with the objective of fostering creative, community-oriented learning environments that can be effectively adopted by local enterprises. Ultimately, the initiative aspires to enhance quality of life and reinforce the local economy through sustainable means. A participatory research and development (R&D) approach was adopted across three phases. In Phase 1, knowledge and skill development were facilitated through field visits and in-depth interviews with 30 facilitators, social activists, and community developers. Phase 2 focused on designing transformative learning processes using SWOT analysis and stakeholder brainstorming workshops involving 141 participants including entrepreneurs, community leaders, and local officials. In Phase 3, the proposed development model was implemented and evaluated through pre- and post-intervention assessments, which revealed statistically significant improvements across all seven learning activities (p < 0.01). The study identified the PLACE Model as a context-sensitive, place-based learning framework that enhances community relevance, fosters sustainable local development, and supports Uttaradit’s vision as a “learning city.” The findings of this study contribute to the formulation of a community-based learning model founded on four key factors: the development of community learning designers, the enhancement of local curricula, the emergence of creative economy markets, and the advancement of mechanisms for multi-stakeholder collaboration. These components have been aligned with the provincial vision and development strategy titled “Uttaradit: Towards a Lifelong Learning City.” Greater emphasis should be placed on reinforcing the processes of local collaborative governance and advancing the concept of Living Learning Spaces within dynamic, community-embedded learning environments. This progression should be guided by expertise in learning design to tangibly enhance local economic activities within the province of Uttaradit.