The Cultural and Physical Environment as Drivers of Workplace Design

Traditionally, architects and designers have worked with clients to develop and implement design solutions from both a functional and an aesthetic approach. The functional approach is justifiable from user needs and activities assessment studies as well as programming data. Aesthetic approaches to the built environment are typically realized through the thoughtful selection of materials, color, pattern and textures. Yet a lingering question exists as to how the cultural environment might be harnessed and shaped by the user and how one, in turn, ‘engages’ space. How one realizes the benefits of effective and thoughtful design through the careful and meaningful creation of the new workplace remains an often elusive, yet important area of exploration.