99% Invisible avatar

Dexa/99% Invisible

Learn more
Published Jan 6, 2023

Unpleasant Design

Roman Mars and Selena Savage delve into the controversial world of 'unpleasant design', investigating how design elements are strategically used to exert social control in public spaces, often targeting marginalized communities and sparking ethical debates around public order and exclusion.
Episode Highlights
99% Invisible logo

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Episode Highlights

  • Ethical Concerns

    The ethical implications of unpleasant design are profound, as they often target vulnerable populations like the homeless. and Selena Savage discuss how design elements, such as spikes in public spaces, are used to deter certain behaviors, raising questions about empathy and social responsibility 1. Savage argues that design should not exclude people, emphasizing the need for a critical theory to recognize coercion in public spaces 2.

    The reason we need a critical theory of unpleasant design is so we can recognize the coercion that is taking place in our public spaces.

    ---

    This debate highlights the tension between creating orderly environments and addressing societal issues like homelessness.

       

    Public Reaction

    Public reaction to unpleasant design is often polarized, with protests and debates erupting in cities like London. recounts instances where spikes installed to prevent rough sleeping sparked outrage, leading to their removal after public protests 1. These designs, while intended to maintain order, are seen by many as symbols of exclusion and insensitivity towards the homeless 2.

    Spikes to stop people from sitting or lying down evoked a wide variety of reactions from the public.

    ---

    The controversy underscores the need for more compassionate approaches to urban design that consider the needs of all community members.

Related Episodes