Kacper Jaroszynski 

The architecture of mid-century modern homes was a precursor of User Experience (UX) Design. My main argument states that UX design methodologies, although undefined at the time, can be traced through principles of modernist architecture of the twentieth century (1930-1970). Reasoning came from the analysis of domestic architectural works by Le Corbusier (Unité d’Habitation), Paul Schweiker (Schweiker’s House), Lenore Sater Thye (Step Saving Kitchen), Peter Womersley (High Sunderland House), Charles and Ray Eames (Case Study House #8). Human-centricity, user goals, user flows, usability testing and prototyping were used to achieve intentional, positive, home experiences that meet the varied needs of people (users) in a given space. Analysis of the IKEA catalogue (1950s-1970s) showed its role in making modernist values accessible to the global population while transitioning from furniture retail to selling appealing home experiences. My conclusion reflects on what we can learn from the modernist practice of home design. There is a need for transdisciplinary collaborations between Urban Planners, Architects, UX Designers and Environmental Designers to create new domestic developments that are positive and liveable experiences, fit for growing population density and the climate crisis.