Course Preview
Placemaking shifts the focus of design from functional efficiency to human experience. It's about answering the fundamental question of the post-pandemic era: "Why go to the office at all?"
In this masterclass, we explore the theoretical frameworks that differentiate a mere "workspace" from a meaningful "workplace." We analyze the history of Taylorism and how its modern echoes still stifle spatial autonomy. Through a synthesis of environmental psychology and architectural theory, we establish practical strategies to transform anemic hybrid offices into rich, community-fostering ecosystems.
What You Will Learn:
- The Psychology of Ownership: How minor spatial autonomy directly correlates to retention.
- De-Taylorizing the Floorplan: Moving beyond the open-plan debate to activity-based micro-environments.
- Cultivating the 'Third Place' at Work: Translating neighborhood social dynamics into corporate corridors.
Module 1: Architectural History of the Workplace
Welcome to the masterclass. We begin with a historical approach, examining how workplaces have evolved. We will trace the shifts from Taylorism, a model based on strict surveillance and maximized efficiency at the expense of human comfort, to Holism, where the entire well-being of the employee is centered. Recognizing these historical paradigms is the first step in unlocking meaningful workplace transformations. [Video Embed Would Go Here]
Reading List & Resources
- Taylor, F. W. (1911). The Principles of Scientific Management.
- Duffy, F. (1997). The New Office. London: Conran Octopus.
Module 2: Models of Workplace Design
How do hybrid and remote models fundamentally differ from the industrial office layout? This module dives deep into defining modern models of workspace design: the Industrial model, the Remote framework, Hybrid systems, and the concept of the Third Place.
You will learn how to transition the concept of "Third Places" (cafes, community centers) into the corporate setting to increase casual collisions and creative cross-pollination. [Video Embed Would Go Here]
Reading List & Resources
- Oldenburg, R. (1989). The Great Good Place.
- Vischer, J. C. (2008). Towards an Environmental Psychology of Workspace.
Module 3: Placemaking at Work
Placemaking asks a critical question: How do we transform a functional "workspace" into a meaningful "workplace"? We explore how emotional attachment, spatial autonomy, and micro-environments contribute to a sense of belonging among employees.
Through practical case studies, we will analyze corporate corridors that successfully mimic neighborhood social dynamics and provide measurable productivity and well-being enhancements.
Module 4: Environmental Impact & The IPAT Equation
Workplace design has profound implications for sustainability. This module applies the IPAT equation (Impact = Population × Affluence × Technology) to analyze the environmental impacts of hybrid and remote work compared to traditional office commuting.
You will learn how to design flexible spaces that reduce corporate carbon footprints and utilize sustainable materials, proving that great design is inherently sustainable design.
Module 5: Flexible Strategies & Smart Buildings
The final module connects technology with physical infrastructure. We discuss how "Smart Buildings" facilitate flexible workplace design strategies. Learn how sensors, interactive booking systems, and responsive HVAC elements can create a 'hackable' environment tailored to employee choices in real-time.
By the end of this module, you will have a comprehensive toolkit to advocate for and implement meaningful Placemaking changes within your organization.
Capstone Project
Apply these five modules to redesign your current hybrid office layout. Submit your floorplan and sustainability impact assessment via the student portal for personalized feedback.
Download Capstone Prompt
About the Instructor
Sara Bensalem is a researcher and architectural designer specializing in workplace sustainability and environmental psychology. Through her PhD research on Placemaking at Work, she dissects the profound impact spatial autonomy, biophilic design, and collaborative ecosystems have on employee well-being. She teaches this course to empower professionals and organizations to reclaim their environments from outdated industrial models, creating meaningful, flexible spaces that thrive in the age of hybrid and remote work.