Author Archives: Genetics of Design

Click on images above to read this post on CommonEdge.org, a non-profit site dedicated to improving the design of our built environment. The piece is co-authored by Ann Sussman and Katie Chen. Ann also co-authors this GoD (GeneticsofDesign) blog with Janice … Continue reading →

Here’s a question. In the photos above of two urban arcades, which one would you rather be in? The image at left or the one at right? Don’t think too much – just choose! In the last 24 months, I’ve had … Continue reading →

“I see a red door and I want it painted black” – Mick Jagger & Keith Richards Aside from the Rolling Stones desire to “Paint it Black,” most people are attracted to red doors. Not only is red a look-at-me … Continue reading →

Last month DWELL published an article called “10 Homes with Distinctive Facades,” that immediately caught our attention. It showed pictures of ten unusual houses, explaining: First impressions are lasting. While these 10 homes have many impressive design features that set them … Continue reading →

Recently in Cincinnati to speak at an AIA Vision event for young architects, I had the opportunity to eye track a local street scene. I shared my findings with the area residents later that evening. Here they are: The photo directly above, … Continue reading →

Does your morning commute spark joy? Probably not, particularly if you exit the subway and face a blank wall. Add some artwork to that facade, however, and your internal joy meter will likely jump! Check out the existing conditions in … Continue reading →

What happens when you eye track architecture? The City of Somerville provided us with some views of Davis Square to find out. Here’s one picture of an existing building there surrounded by parking. And here’s the same image we photoshopped … Continue reading →

Eye tracking, often used in web and ad design today, can help us see how we see art. Here’s Femme a la Fenetre, (Woman at a Window) a portrait Picasso painted of his mistress Marie-Thérèse in 1936. (It sold at auction for … Continue reading →

This cartoon by Hilary Price really gets it: We’re built for relationships, so much so that we love looking for and at people all the time and extend this trait to looking at inanimate things that resemble us. We are … Continue reading →