The Reading Warehouse

Environmental Design: An Anthology features diverse readings that explore the interdependency of humans and the built environment. Readers discover how environments affect human behavior, how humans impact environments, and the myriad factors to consider when designing or constructing new buildings, landscapes, or urban spaces. The readings emphasize the impact of decisions made by designers, builders, and occupants on the health of human and natural systems.

The text is divided into four units, organized by scale, beginning small with the human body and increasing in scope to include natural systems. Unit Zero provides a brief introduction to human development and how it influences design. In Unit One, students examine the relationship between the human body and the built environment, with emphasis on sensory perception. Unit Two features readings that introduce the cultural concept of dwelling and how designers and builders create according to the needs of individuals, communities, and corporations. In the final unit, students learn about the relationships between the body, the community, and nature, including discussion of sustainability and regenerative design.

Environmental Design is an ideal supplementary resource for courses in environmental design and architecture.

Jennifer A. E. Shields is an assistant professor of architecture at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo and a licensed architect in the state of North Carolina. She earned her master's degree in architecture from the University of Virginia.

Michael Lucas is an emeritus professor of architecture at California Polytechnic State University and a planning commissioner for the city of Morro Bay, California. He earned his master's degree in architecture from Morgan State University.

Ellen Burke is an assistant professor of sustainability in the built environment at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo. She earned her master's degree in landscape architecture from Harvard University Graduate School of Design.