1. Systematize your Environment
A How-to Guide
Stewart MacGregor-Dennis

2. Purpose of the environment
• I found that I wanted to use my room for
sleeping, getting dressed, and some basic
storage.
• Specifically, I did not want to use it for
studying.
• This influence the design.

3. Determine principles for environment
• For instance:
– Would you like your environment to be
minimalist?
– Is cleanliness important?
– How much do you care about clutter?

4. Create the vision
• Start thinking about what you want the
environment to look like, and specific
functions.
• For each item in the environment, determine
what you will specifically use it for.
• Move everything else into storage (this has a
lower cognitive burden compared to throwing
items away).

5. Take Immediate Action
• Your motivation levels will most likely be at a
peak following the design.
• Some of the tasks may require physical effort
and a high-level of motivation.
• Tackle these tasks immediately.

6. Use emergent design
• While you’re taking action, you may notice
areas to improve that you hadn’t considered
before.
• Allow yourself the flexibility to take advantage
of an emergent design process.
• Incorporate new design insights as you go.