2004 - Issue 2

In this issue we provide information for you from twelve separate journals, three magazines and news sources, and two web sites. These journals range from the American Journal of Public Health through the Journal of Environmental Economics and Management, to the journal Perception—a wider range than would be on the reading list of almost any designer of the physical environment.

The 2004 conference of the Environmental Design Research Association (EDRA) will be held in Albuquerque, New Mexico, June 2-6, 2004.

Having access to a nearby park or open space is "priceless," but can an actual monetary value be placed on living near a green space? Several studies attempt to answer that question.

Environmental designers have only recently focused on the therapeutic effects of the outdoor environment upon those with Alzheimer’s disease. A recent study provides new insights for those who are trying to meet the challenges of improving the quality of life for those affected by this devastating disease.

Evidence has shown that ergonomic interventions can decrease worker discomfort, but can they increase productivity? Are ergonomic guidelines being ignored in schools?

Designing streets for pedestrians requires consideration of a basic concern—safety. Yet, many safety installations, such as raised islands, installed sidewalks, and pedestrian overpasses can be expensive to design and install. Can lower-cost interventions be effective?

Why go to the mall? Two articles examine shopper motivation and how shoppers' mall memories and preferences affect shopping behavior.

ASID has identified significant social, technological, organizational, business, and political trends that will influence the market for interior design services in the years ahead.

The National Research Council (NRC) of Canada has recently completed its COPE (Cost-effective Open-Plan Environments) project for workplace environments.

The September 2003 issue of the American Journal of Public Health focuses on the influence of the built environment on health.