Design quality
Impact of Design
The impact of design is the building’s ability to influence the way it is perceived and used, and the way it has an effect on the environment surrounding it, its ability to create a sense of place and to have a positive effect on the local community. Crucial to the Learning and Skills sector is the impact of design on the experience of learners.
At the heart of good design is the ‘feel good’ factor, the creation of which positively influences the attitudes of students. Well designed places for learning can promote inclusion and a sense of security delivering a sense of well-being which will support and inspire ambition and achievement.
Good design integrates the building and its activities into the local community, bringing benefits of activity and the opportunity to regenerate urban areas. Civic pride is enhanced by quality civic buildings giving a focus and stature to learning that encourages and engages the community in the opportunities the college can deliver.
Good design of the entrance enables people to understand how to get into the building and makes it easier for them to cross the threshold. There is no point having a big sign that says ‘Reception’ or ‘Way In’ when you cannot read or don’t understand the language. Good entrance design also allows security to be managed in an appropriate way that is not obtrusive but provides a sense of safety and supports the ‘feel good’ factor.
Good design is understandable and accessible. When moving through a place or building, understanding where you are is important to your ability to enjoy the experience and to perform to your full potential. Worrying about where you are or should be and not understanding how to get there has a negative impact on this experience. Creating ‘landmarks’ and ensuring visual references are available support the understanding of a place.
Good design allows a building to respond to the needs of users. To adapt and change to the changing needs of the curriculum and the divers requirements of students. Through an adaptable approach to structure and services to a flexible approach to use a good design can be agile and respond to the users current and future needs.
Design can have a great impact on the experience of users. Designers need to understand how the environment affects personal experience. Much of this is intuitive but must be carefully considered. Light, colour, good ventilation and temperature all have a significant impact on the way people react, enjoy and relax in a space. It is the work of a good designer to ensure these are all considered in the delivery of the quality environment for learning and working.
