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…

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.…

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…

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

Behavioral Path Analysis is both a theory and a methodology for studying person-environment interactions. It is designed to be applicable to the evaluation of both environments in use and proposed designed environments. This paper presents the basics of the theory, and some examples of recent applications that have guided its development. The…

This study was commissioned by the American Institute of Architects because of a widespread feeling that education for environmental design must change. The purpose of this study is to focus and give direction to the many changes that are taking place in environmental design education today. Emerging from the study was a process for planning and…

Suggested guidelines for designing indoor lighting and outdoor play space for child care centers are outlined in this booklet. It is recommended that, by focusing on the psychological and physiological needs of the children, decisions as to lighting, color, and playground design will evolve naturally. The guidelines were prepared based on the fact…

Twenty-five representatives active in research for architecture made major contributions to the profession by presenting their findings to conferees at the AIA Architect-Researcher's Conference. The final papers that were made available for this publication contain the essential contents of the original presentation. Special consideration was…

This paper first outlines the several problems encountered by architects in predicting user comprehension of designed environments, establishes the importance of the need to predict accurately, and suggests ways in which research can help improve prediction. Also discussed are the objectives and methodological problems associated with the four…

Formulas used in the calculation of cooling loads and indoor temperatures are employed to demonstrate the influence of various building parameters--such as thermal transmittance (U-value), solar absorptivity, and thermal storage--on the indoor thermal environment. The analysis leads to guidance on ways of limiting temperatures in naturally…

This publication is intended to help administrators, board members, and citizen groups plan facilities for the education of very young children. Parameters are set within which planners may explore a variety of flexible ideas to enhance learning experiences for young children as they embark on their first school experiences. Some of the basic…