When one visits an art gallery as a novice, the complexity of the artwork can be daunting to decipher. However, as one delves deeper into the meaning behind each brushstroke or composition, a profound understanding emerges. Similarly, in the realm of architecture, there exists a parallel journey of comprehension. Renowned architects, in their pursuit of architectural excellence, acquire wisdom and insight along the way. Their reflections on this journey often reveal profound truths, akin to the timeless wisdom found in common sayings.
It is through this lens that we can begin to grasp the profound transformation in perception that occurs in the pursuit of architecture. Architects’ perspectives, as they evolve, are akin to unraveling the layers of meaning within their designs, akin to uncovering the hidden metaphors and intentions behind their creations.
“ God Is In The Details “ – Mies van der Rohe
In the pursuit of architecture, man develops a heightened awareness of the nuances of design that often go unnoticed by the untrained eye. This shift in perspective not only changes how architects perceive their surroundings but also influences how they approach their work, leading to designs that are not just functional but also deeply thoughtful and holistic.
It is a common pitfall to become ensnared by the superficial allure of aesthetics or the grandiose scale of a project. However, genuine architectural prowess lies in the ability to balance form with function, and beauty with utility.
The once inconspicuous fire staircase now reveals itself as a vital component of an ordinary structure, irrespective of the project scale, its significance amplified by the lens of architectural understanding. Similarly, the inclusive design of amenities such as washbasins and washrooms for children in everyday places other than schools and kindergartens emerges as a nuanced detail that becomes apparent only after delving into the realm of architecture. These seemingly minor yet impactful details not only make sense but also serve as catalysts for implementing inclusive and functional design elements. Architecture, through its intricate layers, has the power to transform one’s perception, unveiling the profound significance of seemingly ordinary elements and inspiring a commitment to thoughtful design.
The Most Social Of The Arts?
There is arguably no form of art more intricately linked to a society than its architectural style. This is because architecture is inherently tied to the physical environment of a society. For the members of that society— acknowledging that it may not be a fully integrated entity—architecture reflects their aspirations, artistic inclinations, and economic status. It also mirrors the society’s technological progress, as well as the climatic conditions, topographical features, and social structure of the region. Architecture not only physically embodies all these aspects but also plays a crucial role in shaping society’s perception of itself. It serves as both a reflection of the society’s activities and a tool for crafting its identity. Architects engage with society more extensively than artists in other fields, and their work is inherently collaborative. Therefore, architecture is uniquely intertwined with the diverse dimensions of societal reality, including economic, social, cultural, political, institutional, and religious aspects.
Hence, Architecture serves as a profound lens through which we perceive and comprehend the intricate fabric of society. The perception of society changes, for Example transcending mere notions of equality and equity rather delving into a deeper understanding and appreciation of these concepts, as well as a keen awareness of the nuances and differences within society and further incorporating this into projects.
It compels us to dive deep into the complexities of social problems and issues, offering profound insights into the drawbacks and challenges faced by societies. This heightened social awareness is not incidental but rather intrinsic to the practice of architecture. Architects must grasp these challenges fully to effectively analyze them and devise innovative solutions that can positively impact society. It enables architects to understand and comprehend better than ever before the multifaceted interplay of social forces that shape our world.
As Hamilton once put it: “The artist, whether his medium is verbal, pictorial, plastic, or musical, is the man equipped with radar to penetrate the cultural fogs of the age. Like the canaries that used to be taken down the mines or the white rabbits that once were carried aboard submarines, this race of mankind knows, before the rest, when the air is becoming poisonous or exhausted “ (Serageldin, I., 1986 )
Engaging in architecture sharpens the critique of societal functions. It integrates diverse inputs, refining analytical skills. Each aspect of a building offers a fresh perspective for evaluation. Architecture deepens understanding of societal complexities, viewing structures as societal reflections.
“To work in architecture you are so much involved with society, with politics, with bureaucrats. It’s a very complicated process to do large projects. You start to see society, how it functions, how it works. Then you have a lot of criticism about how it works.” – Ai Weiwei
The Boundless Realm: Architecture’s Influence Beyond Walls
“Architecture arouses sentiments in man. The architect’s task, therefore, is to make those sentiments more precise.” – Adolf Loos
In the past, buildings may have appeared as mere monoliths, but architects now perceive them with emotional depth. The sensory experience at the School for Blind and visually impaired children in Gandhinagar illustrates that architecture engages all senses, from sight to touch and even taste. This realization has transformed my perception of architecture from a mere physical structure to a realm with metaphysical implications, encompassing both the physical and sensory worlds.
Architecture has emerged as a medium that deeply influences our sensory and emotional experiences. The aroma of aged residences, for instance, can evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort, while other architectural spaces may evoke a myriad of emotions in different individuals. This newfound perspective prompts a deeper exploration of the unique character inherent in every building, and public space, underscoring the transformative impact of architecture on our sensory and emotional landscapes.
The essence of Florensky’s philosophy lies in the intricate nature of physical space, which he views as a uniquely organized reality, far from being a mere blank canvas. He argues that this reality, grounded in specific physical contexts, possesses a richness and uniqueness that is often lacking in abstract or geometric representations. Particularly within the realm of design, this idea relates to two distinct types of space.
Florensky distinguishes between abstract or geometric space and physiological space, the latter encompassing various sensory experiences such as vision, touch, hearing, smell, and taste. Each of these sensory dimensions adds a layer of complexity to our understanding of space. This concept is crucial in contemporary discussions, especially in light of the rapid advancements in digital technology, which often rely on predefined spatial schemas.
The tension between geometric and sensory spaces is further emphasized by Antoine Picon, who suggests that modern architecture has sought a balance between these two realms. Geometric space, epitomized by linear perspective, has dominated architectural representation since the Renaissance. However, this dominance has often come at the expense of sensory richness. As digital tools increasingly dictate design processes, there is a risk of losing the nuanced sensory qualities that define our experience of space.
In conclusion, the evolving relationship between geometric and sensory spaces in architecture reflects broader shifts in our understanding of space, particularly in the digital age. By embracing the richness of physiological space, architects can create more immersive and meaningful environments that resonate with our senses and emotions. ( Tchouprikova, E.K., 2013)
Man begins to discern beauty and potential in places that might otherwise be overlooked, and learns to approach their craft with meticulous attention to detail and a profound appreciation for the nuances of design. This shift in perspective ultimately culminates in the creation of buildings and environments that not only serve their intended functions but also enrich the lives of those who encounter them. Ultimately, the pursuit of architecture is a transformative journey that alters how man perceives and engages with the world around him.
REFERENCES:
Articles
- Serageldin, I., 1986. Architecture and society. Architecture and Education in the Islamic World. Singapore: Concept Media/Aga Khan Award for Architecture, pp.75-87.
- Tchouprikova, E.K., 2013. Metaphysical lens for architecture (Doctoral dissertation, Carleton University).
