Design Commission inquiry into design and behaviour in the built environment
On 8 June 2015, the Design Commission launched an Inquiry into Design and behaviour in the built environment with a call for evidence.
The Design Commission is the research arm of the All Party Parliamentary Design and Innovation Group (APDIG). It is an industry-led body, established in 2010 and comprises cross-party members of both houses along with leading members of the UK design industry. The secretariat is provided by Policy Connect, a social enterprise that promotes evidence-based policy development.
Previous inquiries have included:
- The importance of design education.
- The potential role for more design in public services.
- Design thinking in government digital and technology strategy.
The Inquiry into design and behaviour in the built environment was launched at an evening discussion with Lord Richard Rogers and Professor Alan Penn, Dean of the Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL. The inquiry is being led by Alan Penn and Baroness Whitaker, vice chair of the APPDIG.
The Commission is inviting interested parties to submit their views on the following questions:
- Does the built environment affect the behaviour of individuals or communities? Is there evidence to suggest that it does or does not? If yes, in what ways?
- Are there examples of changes in behaviour on the part of people in the UK in relation to any aspect of the built environment? What examples should the Inquiry look at, both positive and negative?
- Are there examples where people have changed their behaviour as the result of some aspect of the built environment?
The deadline for submissions was Friday, 3rd July 2015. The inquiry will be holding round table evidence sessions in the Autumn and expects to report at the end of the year.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.