Inhabiting new space is often a matter of trial and error. New spaces can often be confusing or frustrating for inhabitants until they ‘see’ how they might use them. Bridging design and use requires an alignment between organisational ethos, inhabitant practices, and the spaces themselves. Fiona Young discusses how a ‘user guide’ might help inhabitants transition to new spaces, and in their ongoing use.

When we buy a new appliance it’s likely to come with instructions on how to use it. But when users encounter new buildings or spaces, they tend to be left to their own devices to uncover available features or to troubleshoot potential issues that might arise.
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