This paper argues that the ‘continuous idea’ is related to community-based environmental quality improvement. This argument is based on the view that environmental conditions do not start from a blank canvas that is responded to with new ideas that are finished, but rather a canvas that has traces of previous ideas and should be positioned as an unfinished condition. The act of re-reading, re-defining, and re-articulating will encourage the improvement of environmental quality with the potential of the context. This study uses Kampung Ketandan, Surabaya, Indonesia, as a case study. Kampung Ketandan has undergone a process of re-articulation of its environment. The replacement and reconstruction of the joglo building in the middle of the kampung triggered an improvement in the quality of the environment in terms of cleanliness, health, and greenery. The findings of this study reveal that behind the improvement in the quality of the environment, there are essential triggers, including redrawing the idea of collaboration and the vision, which is based on the act of revisiting the idea of ownership. The findings suggest the importance of understanding and applying intransitive perspectives in maintaining environmental quality.