The value of good design

This short document has a very simple aim. It draws together key research from the UK and abroad to show that investment in good design generates economic and social value.

A well-designed hospital will help patients get better more quickly, a well-designed school will improve the educational achievements of its pupils, a well-designed department store will have a direct impact on stock turnover and a well-designed neighbourhood will benefit from lower crime and higher house values. Good design is not just about the aesthetic improvement of our environment – it is as much about improved quality of life, equality of opportunity and economic growth.