November 15th Body, Space, Movement, Inclusivity and Diversity.

Throughout history, philosophers, artist, theoreticians, and architects have always been fascinated with the human body. It has even become code for some specific measurements, such as feet which is based on the length of a human foot, or inches which is a division of Roman ‘foot.’

Calculating modular elements, Source: (Delaney and Gorman, p 305) Methods of measurements, Source: (Delaney and Gorman, p 298)

We were then introduced to three concepts. The first one Ergonomics is derived from the Greek words ergon (work) and nomos (law.) It “Aims to design appliances,

technical systems and tasks in such a way as to improve human safety, health, comfort and performance.“ (Dul and Weerdmeester, 2008, p.1) 

Examples of how Ergonomics work when we're in a space & Le Cobusier's study of the human figure.

The second concept ‘anthropometry’ is a science that focuses on the measurements of the human body, empowering designers on how to create a space that is conductive of the natural movements of the body. “Inclusive design considers the full range of human diversity” (Morales, 2021, May) The last concept ‘proxemics’ is a field of study relating to the “intangible personal space bubbles that individuals regard as their territory.” (Oji, 2017, p. 98) Often it is attributed to cultural anthropologist Edward Hall’s description of "space as a system of communication." (Hall,1969)  Suggesting that there is a dimension to space, that means people’s boundaries don’t end with the skin.

Book I read to further understand Movement, Inclusivity and Diversity in relation to Body and Space & Diagrams of Personal Space.

I now understand the impact ergonomics has on the design of space to ensure it is fit for us humans, there is also the idea of inclusivity in all of this as we do not all have the same body and capabilities. I would describe what I have learnt today as the body’s relationship to productivity in space.

References:

Dul, J., & Weerdmeester, B. A. (2008). Ergonomics for beginners. [electronic resource]: a quick reference guide (3rd ed.). Taylor & Francis.

Morales, J. (2021, May). Adobe .https://xd.adobe.com/ideas/principles/design-systems/what-isinclusive-design-principles-and-examples/#:~:text=Principles%20and%20Examples,- Justin%20Morales%20May&text=Inclusive%20design%20considers%20the%20full,as%20many%20p eople%20as%20possible.

Panero, J., & Zelnik, M. (1979). Human dimension & interior space : a source book of design reference standards. Whitney Library Of Design, [20]05.

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