Mary Beth Robinson Lecture

Human Environment Relationship

*Mary Beth teaches this course here at UT

It is important to evaluate what we, as designers, actually do. We make changes in not only our own lives, but others too. We have to think about others and what they actually need, while designing. We work with textures, acoustics, colors, size, temperature, and space, of course! A perfect example is the Frank Gary Disney Concert Hall. He uses wood to imitate nature on the interior. 

When designing it is important to realize that you and your tastes will not play a large part in design. You have to work with others and what they like and want. Diversity is a big part of being an interior designer. 

Key terms Mary Beth mentioned are fixed-featured space,  semi-fixed featured space, and informal space. She talked about how in Japan, the rooms do not have set names , like dining room and bedroom, but serve a multitude of purposes.

VOCAB

• Proxemics- interrelated observations and theories of peoples use of space as a specialized elaboration of culture.
• Infra cultural- behaviors that are innate in us.
• Per cultural- senses which are shared by all humans used to compare different cultures.
• Sociofugal- fixed spaces, inhibit social connection with people.  makes for easier pathways, is about function and organization.  - spaces that keep people apart.
• Sociopedal- you can move things around.  Social interaction is increased. - spaces that bring people together.