Theoretical backing part 02: Social design

Social design is probably the most complex theory which I am investigating for this year. It refers to people (well, obviously) and how they interact with, move around and relate to a space. There are many many aspects under the social design theory umbrella and I am actually knee-deep in bookmarks and post-its trying to remember every aspect and detail pertaining to this theory. But, complex as it is, this theory is very useful to my design this year.

So, my creative hub design proposal stems around the student demographic and their interests, marketing and attractions. Social design helps me to narrow down the details to add into my design so that it is optimally suited to human comfort levels, emotional stability within the space, as well as a guidance technique for students within the space. If students are comfortable within the space, they will be emotionally invested in it, which will add a relation to the function and therefore bring the hub income....a mouthful I know, but a key element to making a niche design successful.

Again, as with all theories, there is a lot of nitty-gritty super detailed and extensive reports available to read and study, and overall this theory is quite interesting when related back to design. My favourite way of describing it is: People designing for people. We, as designers, must never forget that the essence and foundation of ANY design is the PEOPLE we are designing for. This, in essence, is what social design aims to portray.

Keep following for the final theory breakdown coming soon...