An exploration of designer-to-user relationship from a care-orientated perspective

Abstract

This paper explores the relationship between designers and users from the perspective of care. Methods included a critical investigation of literature about the ideal care relationship, interviews with Hong Kong residential designers about their opinion on “designers as care professions” and analyses of these designers’ strategies for interacting with users. The research reveals that designers tend to view themselves as collaborative partners in satisfying users’ needs from the user-centered design perspective. This design approach leads designers to focus on each individual’s desire. But largely ignored their role as active influencers in changing user’s behavior and improving people’s relationships. This study suggests that designers consider residential design from a care-orientated perspective to build a more harmonious relationship with users.