We are honored to share insight at EDRA54 in Mexico City June 20 – 23, a global gathering of thought leaders at the design industry’s premier research forum, sponsored by the Environmental Design Research Association (EDRA).
Through wide-ranging presentations, we’ll highlight how research promotes exceptional design, environmental stewardship, occupant wellbeing—and memorable experiences. And yes, we’ll also celebrate our two recent research awards!
Evaluation of Efficiencies and Experience Related to Pre-Op and Post-Op Designs of Orthopedic Outpatient Surgery Center
Mahshid Jalalian
Design Researcher
Tanya Chadha
Medical Planner
Danya Hakky
Design Researcher
Date: June 21 | Time: 4:00 pm (CST)
This research examined two orthopedic outpatient surgery centers to inform the construction of a new Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC). The study aimed to compare the efficiency of care delivery and user experiences between two different layouts—one with separate areas for pre-op, PACU, and post-op, and the other combining pre-op and post-op in one area with an adjacent PACU. Results indicated that the same-room layout for pre- and post-op care was more efficient, with more satisfaction with patient flow and less time spent on patient transfers.
Understanding and Addressing Challenges in Higher Education: Phase 2 Tool Development and Pilot Study Results of an Occupant Evaluation Framework
Renae Rich
Design Researcher
Oshana Reich
Design Researcher
Date: June 21 | Time: 6:30 (CST)
As part of an overarching goal for HGA to develop a holistic approach for the evaluation of higher education facilities, a framework and tool development was presented last year at EDRA53. The second phase of the study, to be presented this year, piloted the tools to establish a standard mixed-method occupant evaluation process. These combined methods provide a comprehensive insight into student, faculty, and staff experience in the facilities, in addition to valuable information about the functionality of the facilities.
Context As Content: Architecture of Social Learning in the Metaverse
Amin Mojtahedi
Design Innovation Manager
Date: June 21 | Time: 6:10 pm – 6:30 pm
When it comes to designing learning spaces, demands of learning theories are far greater than what the material world can supply. Thus, very often, architecture and physical space turn into a restraining factor as opposed to an enabling one. For the first time in history, however, capabilities of the Metaverse, a decentralized network of virtual spaces, are providing learning experts, learners, and environmental designers with new resources to co-create a fit between the environment and learning theories. The goal of this article is to put forward a conceptual lens at the intersection of architecture, social learning, and the Metaverse. To build the lens, the article leverages (a) the literature on social learning theories, and (b) examples of architects’ and designers’ efforts for materializing spatial and physical contexts for social learning. The article concludes by offering 14 principles describing architecture of social learning in the Metaverse.
UWM Student Union
Anoosha Baladi
Work Process Coordinator
Date: June 21 | Time: 7:10 pm (CST)
This research focuses on the renovation of a student union building on a higher education campus, aiming to create a more supportive and inclusive space for students. The study involves mixed-method research and an inclusive engagement process to develop success criteria and design guidelines for the renovations. The new design emphasizes natural light, views, and consolidated services, aiming to enhance student well-being and improve the discoverability of resources. A pre-occupancy evaluation was conducted to collect benchmark data to compare to a post-occupancy assessment of the Union after the completion of renovations in Fall 2023 to measure the impact of the design decisions on building use and perceptions.
You’ve Heard of Universal Design, but What About Universal Research? A Groundbreaking Workshop to Explore and Inspire Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion within Environmental Studies
Terri Zborowski
Evidence-Based Design Researcher
Renae Rich
Design Researcher
Danya Hakky
Design Researcher
Date: June 22 | Time: 4:00 pm (CST)
During this workshop attendees will learn about the range of diversity in populations as it relates to conducting research studies. HGA experts will discuss barriers to access, ability, and representation of participation in design research, and discuss tools and approaches to address these challenges. Next steps and action items to improve DEI knowledge and capabilities in this field will be prioritized.
2023 Great Places and CORE Awards Luncheon
We are pleased to accept two EDRA CORE awards for our research studies with the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis and Bellin Health in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Our studies—”A Welcoming & Confident Visitor Experience: Case Study of an Art Center” and “Evaluation of User Efficiencies and Experience Related to Universal Design of Orthopedic Ambulatory Surgical Centers”—share the common goal of improving human experiences through design research.
Date: June 22 | Time: 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm (CDT)