As humans encountering the world, there is science to all
we experience and all we pursue. From the air we breathe
to the products we purchase to the spaces we design and enjoy,
in ways both subtle and obvious, we exist in a constant state
of interaction with the scientific world.
In deciding to dedicate an issue to the science behind design, we
wanted to explore the many principles of science that directly
affect the design industry—biology, psychology, and chemistry
chief among them. Upon researching these areas, plus additional
scientific fields and their design connections, we realized we could
have filled volumes. In this issue, we explore the concepts of
biology in the built environment (“Designing for the Unseen,” p. 34),
the psychological effects of color (“Color, in Theory,” p. 50),
and chemistry’s influence on our material world (“Making Use
of Every Molecule,” p. 40). We also dig into topics that aren’t
always tackled in conversations about design but that are critical
to the complete design process, including empathy, neuroscience,
regeneration, and custodial work.
Our conclusion now that this issue is complete? The worlds of
science and design are inextricably linked and complement each
other at every turn. As we continue to experiment on both sides
of this relationship, our understanding of how the two fields
can help one another to grow will only deepen and the resultant
work will enhance the human spirit and positively impact the
spaces where we live, work, and play.
An Inside
View
Randy W. Fiser
ASID CEO
Tony Brenders
IDC CEO
Randy Fiser, CEO, ASID,
and Tony Brenders, CEO, IDC.
(Image: Lindsay Cephas)
RESEARCH-DRIVEN DESIGN
