Have you ever come across a door that appears confusing, or difficult to use? We call these Norman doors, named after (and not by) design guru Don Norman, author of the book ‘The Design of Everyday Things.’ The name is used to characterise the peculiar design.
How do I know if a Door is Norman?
Does the door make sense when you approach it? Do you know whether the door needs to be pushed or pulled? If you answer ‘no’ to these, you have a Norman door. It may be that the door doesn’t specify a ‘push’ or ‘pull’ action, or it may be that you cannot locate a place to push or pull it, for example a door with no handles or push plates. Even a door which slides when you try to push or pull it, can be defined as Norman.
Once you know how to spot a Norman door, you will notice them everywhere you go.
How do I make sure a door isn’t Norman?
We know that doors must either be open or closed, but how do we ensure people know how a door should open? Handles, knobs, latches, pull bars, plates and rails/tracks all give us an idea of the motion required to open a door. For example, a door on a rail, or track, would suggest that the door probably opens by sliding, whereas a door with a push plate would suggest that the door should be pushed to open, and so on.
Doors That Should not be Norman
If you have a fire exit, or a door with panic hardware that appears Norman, this is unsafe and must be addressed. You can contact us for help or advice.
So, now you know what a Norman door is, are there any you remember seeing? Keep a look out when you’re next out and about, because they are a lot more common than you think. If you have any photos of Norman doors, please send them over to us on Facebook or by e-mail!