The Conversation recently published a piece discussing the increasing use of children in design, and about an ongoing study of what architects can learn from children.
The study is being carried out through the University of Sheffield's School of Architecture. Currently completed are two case studies and interviews of 16 architect and landscape architects who have worked with children.
Here's what we've found interesting in their findings so far:
Pros:
• Interviewed architects stated that children's uninhibited curiosity leads to an alternative process of design
• Children are more focused on experiencing or exploring space than on everyday concerns, meaning that they explore many scenarios adults wouldn't think of
• Children are less likely than adults to censor themselves when brainstorming or evaluating a space
Cons:
• Children can be hard to work with, disruptive (duh!)
• Some architects admitted to being uncomfortable with the unpredictability of kids in the design process
You can check out the whole piece, and see links to more research, here.
Related Stories
| Apr 10, 2013
First look: University at Buffalo's downtown medical school by HOK
The University at Buffalo (UB) has unveiled HOK's dramatic design for its new School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences building on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus.
| Apr 10, 2013
6 funding sources for charter school construction
Competition for grants, loans, and bond financing among charter schools is heating up, so make your clients aware of these potential sources.
| Apr 10, 2013
23 things you need to know about charter schools
Charter schools are growing like Topsy. But don’t jump on board unless you know what you’re getting into.
| Apr 9, 2013
FMI predicts 8% rise in construction put in place for 2013
FMI, the largest provider of management consulting and investment banking services to the engineering and construction industry released today its Q1-2013 Construction Outlook. The forecast for total construction-put-in-place for 2013 continues to show an increase of 8% over 2012 levels.