As architecture evolves by gaining renewed methods of interaction, I think it is good for architects to gain perspective from the field of interaction design. The following video reviews some key concepts that interaction designers use to execute their designs. Look out for the three leading questions that drive all interaction projects.

VIDEO REVIEW

Interaction design is defined by Wikipedia as the “discipline of defining the behavior of products and systems that a user can interact with”. In this video, Bill Verplank explains very clearly what Read more

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Biofeedback works via the mechanisms of feedback within a system. This is when, during a process, information is given to a previous point to correct a developmental path. Feedback can be quite useful in a realm of areas, particularly when it comes to human health – as in “biofeedback”. During biofeedback, machines help patients to improve the performance of their body physiology by allowing them to train their bodies to respond to stimuli given by a special biofeedback device.(1) Thus, using feedback to optimize performance is a tool that I can see being useful when it comes to the design of smart architecture. Let me explain…

Embedded with sensors, a smart architectural environment and its many ubiquitous computing objects will have the ability to monitor occupant interactions. Such a collection of occupant information may be used to help meet a variety of human needs by detecting patterns or unhealthy behaviors. For example, smart architecture may be able to improve occupant health by making key suggestions at certain decision-making moments. Architecture would be using some principles of biofeedback to help its occupants during the course of their daily activities.

While occupants go about their daily lives, smart architecture could help occupants via its interactive features. It would work with occupants to help them engage in healthier behaviors. For example, using feedback, smart architecture could suggest healthier behavioral options to help occupants increase exercise, eat well balanced meals or improve sleep routines.

All in all, smart architecture can be used to improve people’s lives. From weight maintenance to heart health, from stress relief to stroke rehabilitation — smart architecture can make a positive difference. Just imagine being in an environment that helps you maintain, improve or rehabilitate your good health. When designed with such goals in mind, smart environments become healthy environments; however, smart architecture can benefit occupants beyond healthcare needs.

Smart architecture that utilizes feedback principles can also make huge differences involving other architectural design concerns. For example, using feedback can also make buildings more sustainable, the workplace more productive and schools better for learning. It seems that feedback can help architecture become even more functional as it gains more targeted and meaningful interactivity with its occupants.

(1) Chaves, MD, Jose. Biofeedback: The Therapy of teh 21st Century

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Just as the brain changes itself by learning, so too must interactive architecture. By learning from feedback, this type of architecture can learn to adapt to occupant needs in real-time. As it interacts, it learns – adapting and evolving as occupant need deem necessary.

When the brain changes by learning, this is called neuroplasticity. By optimizing functionality, the brain’s goal is to always make itself more useful. Can you imagine how this might apply to interactive architecture?

By embedding feedback into interactive architecture the system may begin to adapt, working toward rule-based system goals. Such goals can be occupant-centered — and from its many interactions with occupants, architectural sensory agents may begin to decipher patterns. From such feedback the architecture can regulate itself and grow by learning.

Interactive architecture can do more that respond to human behavior. With feedback, it can begin to actually adapt – evolving in its communication and; therefore, ability to help occupants.