In 2006, we launched the [R]MIT Research Centre (Modification, Intervention Transformation) at the Faculty of Architecture at Delft University of Technology. [R]MIT was founded to respond to the need for an integrated, multi-disciplinary approach to the transformation of the built environment. [R]MIT aims to bring momentum to the renewal of…

Explores the idea that both the design and the use of buildings are part of a general human learning process concerned with the use of space. Argues that researchers face the need to bridge the gap between designers and users on the one hand and "objective" observers on the other. Gives a critique of some current methods of research in buildings…

Discusses records made of the London Weather Centre indicative of concentrated sunshine symmetrically about noon, which provides a probability of sunshine occurring on vertical surfaces to be greatest for south facing walls. Concludes that design recommendations should be based on available, rather than on theoretically possible, sunshine duration…

An overview of literature on research dealing with adult learning and the physical environment discusses three elements of the research: (1) the reductionistic approaches; (2) the notable exceptions; and (3) the functional environment. Conclusions are made regarding the future direction of research involving adult learning and the physical…

This paper discusses the special problems of research in desiging for user groups with various functional limitations, such as the elderly, the mentally ill, and the economically deprived. (Author)

The physical environment can measurably affect behavior and psychological well-being. This is critical in the case of older persons who are more environmentally vulnerable than the young due to limited financial resources and decreased mobility. A group of 91 olderly residents in multi-story private and public housing participated in this study.…

Assesses the utility of a control-based analysis of crowding by examining the relationship between prolonged exposure to architecturally mediated social density and motivational deficits characteristic of learned helplessness. Subjects were 120 freshmen residents of long- and short-corridor dormitories. (MP)

An interdisciplinary project that involved (1) designing a classroom environment to reinforce and enhance a predetermined curriculum for preschool children and (2) studying their sensory experiences with design. (Author)

This 34-item bibliography brings together the random articles about programing, which have appeared in a variety of publications, to establish a resource for architectural students and practitioners who need a clearer understanding of the nature of architectural programing. The entries are divided into those that serve as an introduction to either…

Gund Hall, the home of Harvard's graduate school of design, was born in turmoil and continues to generate controversy. (Author/MLF)

Explores research needs in urban design. Presents models for research design. (MA)

Social, psychological, and physiological factors all impinge on the awareness of the handicapped, the elderly, and the rest of us in experiencing architecture. (Author)

Article stresses the effect of physical environment on a conference's success or failure. Further research into what constitutes the best setting and how to achieve it is urged. More study is also needed of how individuals at conferences interact with each other and with the physical setting. (PD)

This paper investigates the special considerations in defining an acoustical environment acceptable for educational purposes. Reviews various approaches for anticipating the degree of dissatisfaction or annoyance in school spaces, including statistical distributions of class noise, and deals with some design recommendations. (Author/MLF)