Personal Space (Spectrum Books)

Widely regarded as the classic text on user-centered design of public buildings and spaces, this book studies how people relate to the designed space around them and how the design of that space can affect their behavior. Its contents are based on comprehensive academic research, the conclusions it draws are highly applicable in real-world projects, and the style of presentation is lucid and interesting. The author; Robert Sommer, deals with topics such as privacy, spatial invasion, small-group ecology and looks at the role of design in settings that include airports, stations, hospitals and schools. Although written when the study of behavior and design was just beginning to be appreciated, the lessons are still deeply relevant. Robert Sommer writes with authority and clarity.