ABSTRACT
To understand how human factors influence the use of physical environments and how those factors might inform the places designers create, this chapter provides a theoretical foundation drawing upon research from many disciplines, including environmental psychology, anthropology, and sociology. The role of the environment on topics such as individual, group, and community perceptions; activities and use patterns; and well-being is examined. Understanding these basic principles is key to creating environments that allow humans the ability to feel comfortable in, build attachment to, or establish long-lasting meaning in a place. For each issue discussed, an overview of the literature is discussed, key findings particularly relevant for landscape architects and other designers are highlighted, and how each theoretical background can be applied to the creation of outdoor environments is provided.
