Design continuously adapts to meet changing social behaviors. Through observation, designers consider the various needs of its users and incorporate elements into their design which will enhance its comfort. This aspect of the responsibility of design can be found in all fields, ranging from the manufacturing of products to subway maps, and architecture.
The visit to the Center for Architecture’s Sao Paulo’s Architectural Infrastructures Exhibition provided insight to how urban planning could impact the social, cultural, and environmental aspects of the city. An important element of the exhibition was its collection of data which measures the city’s general population, environmental waste, greenspace, methods of mobility, and economy. The SESC 24 de Maio building is a community center which features a variety of activities and places, including an underground theater and a rooftop pool. One interesting element was how the circulation ramps create a sense of street life inside the building by connecting intermediary spaces where people can gather informally. Taking into consideration of the seriousness of Sao Paulo’s street crimes, this building may have provided a safer alternative for those wanting to find a place where they can enjoy meeting others without the threat of danger. This connection made me realize the importance of taking into account of the current issues of a society during the process of designing.
The 53rd Fifth Avenue subway station installment was an engaging experience because the exhibition was held inside the subway, and was open to anyone waiting for the train. It was effective in terms of providing a new perspective of a place which is so frequently visited. It was interesting to see the meticulous planning of the colors and the choice of fonts behind the signs. Navigating the subway, especially in New York, can be a very confusing experience. It is a stressful environment where many people are in a hurry, and those who are new to the city may feel lost or frightened. If the signs were not designed in a way that is easy to comprehend, it would further complicate the traveler’s experience and add to his stress. It seemed like Vignelli’s focus on the simplification of the signs and map was because he had taken the traveler’s complicated emotional state into consideration. Due to people’s reluctance to ask for help, they would have to rely on the signs to provide directions. Vignelli had hoped that the confusion, stress, and embarrassment which was being experienced by New Yorkers would be resolved through his effort in making the subway more simple and accessible. Another example of design created for the purpose of making it easier to navigate around the city is the Manhattan city grid, from the Skyscraper Museum. This grid is a system which is straightforward and comprehensible, allowing pedestrians to find their way around just by knowing which avenue or street they are on. Because this system is easy to understand, it will enable people to explore the city without being discouraged of being unable to find their way back. The Fifth Avenue subway station installment, along with the visit to the Skyscraper Museum, made me realize that I should always consider the emotional state in which my users are in during the process of completing my design.
Thoughtful design can bring positive change in society. Designers have to observe different challenges, and revise these elements in order to create a design which will allow people to have a meaningful experience.
Works Cited:
“MTA Arts & Design.” MTA, web.mta.info/mta/aft/permanentart/permart.html?agency=n&line=E&station=7&artist=1&img=3&xdev=600.
“Access for All: São Paulo’s Architectural Infrastructures Opening and Lecture – Calendar – AIA New York / Center for Architecture.” Calendar, 12 Feb. 2020, calendar.aiany.org/2019/12/17/access-for-all-s%c3%a3o-paulos-architectural-infrastructures-opening-and-lecture/.
“Brazil 2019 Crime & Safety Report: São Paulo.” OSAC, www.osac.gov/Country/Brazil/Content/Detail/Report/88e4a26a-4eef-4ce1-a89b-15f4aecc5e1e.
“The Greatest Grid.” The 1811 Plan, thegreatestgrid.mcny.org/the-1811-plan.
