Ideal for students of architecture, design, social psychology, and psychology, this groundbreaking book shows how to improve the quality of buildings by constructing them with the needs of the occupants in mind. There is a world of difference between a sculptural chair and one designed to be sat in. The job of the architect is to create practical, not merely beautiful, living and working spaces. This belief has become the dominant force in architecture since the move away from formalism. And now, author Robert Sommer tells us, architects are turning to the social sciences for reliable information about human behavior and well-being. Social design blends theory and empirical evidence to discuss the growing collaboration between psychologists and designers. It provides students and professionals alike with fascinating food for thought and applicable guidelines on improving the quality of life in our built environments.