Archi blog

Beyond the provision of a physical enclosure for the body, architecture also influences the way we feel, remember and perceive the world. The elements that affect our physical and emotional reactions vary light, materials, sound, scale, movement through a space will effect whether we feel calm, cramped, isolated or elated. Phenomenological concerns the direct experiential, psychological and sensory perception of space and not the purely visual. For Peter Zumthor "The most important quality that buildings possess is atmosphere because buildings 'speak' emotionally to people through their materials, light and composition" (Zumthor, 2006). Materials such as timber or stone tend to feel welcoming and warm in contrast to the rigidity of inflexible surfaces and harsh, sterile lighting. InZumthor'sThermeVals, the skillful use of light and silence is employed to create a sequence of rooms encouraging introspection and relaxation.

 

Juhani Pallasmaa, has consistently argued that contemporary architecture favors aesthetics at the expense of sensory experience and argues that "meaningful architecture touches all senses, including those of touch, sound and smell," (Pallasmaa, 2012). He believes that we only truly relate to buildings when we can also experience them through the senses and not just by looking at them. Scale is another important factor in influencing our feelings toward a building or space. A building or room can appear cold and distant if it is too large and rigid or intimate and comforting if it is appropriately scaled for a human being. Conversely, public space, which may feature natural light and abundant plants, can be equally comforting in its openness and natural character if clear circulation and design principles are evident.

 

I myself experience most comfort in spaces which have soft, natural lighting and use natural materials, which create a sense of peace and balance, whereas artificially lit and overbuilt environments are often more tiresome and emotionally exhausting for me which makes me realize the impact of architecture on our overall health. Therefore, architecture not only must provide shelter but also inspire and touch upon an emotional level. Hence it becomes critical for designers to ensure that spaces are not only functional and aesthetically appealing, but also promote our comfort and facilitate thought.