4. CONTROL
GOALS
"I have choices."
THE BASICS
Control is achieved through user flexibility.
The ability for the user to be able to manipulate a space and their location within a space, is necessary for well-being (2-4). We adapted to the natural environment in ways that offered the most protection, and resource availability. This meant the ability to move and adjust spaces are required.
The ability for a building to fit the needs of all inhabitants is unlikely to be achieved with one approach, therefore, user flexibility becomes key. This goal is highly variable to project types (healthcare vs workplace for example) and client needs. Considerations for those specific project types should addressed individually.
Different people have different needs
Needs can change by gender, introvert or extrovert tendencies, age, specific task, and other variables. This ability to choose can decrease stress associated with a space while increasing the user's enjoyment, ability to focus, be productive, and creative (1, 2, 5). Listed are general considerations that will apply in most scenarios:
All Photo Credits: Nicole Craanen
General considerations for user control:
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Range of Privacy: An ability to choose how open or confined of a space one works in.
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Adjustability of Physical Environment: Ability to move chairs, desks, sit, stand, ergonomics, etc.
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Level of Noise
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Temperature
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Level of Light
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Level of Restoration
