Architecture and the senses
We perceive architecture through our senses. There are constant atmospheric interactions in space, between lighting intensity and thermal comfort, sound and maybe the perceived level of safety, and so on. Interactions between different senses determine the effect architectural spaces have on our emotional and mental well-being.
The perception of architecture works on different levels. Its view, the larger picture, and the preconceived image in our mind, all merge when we reflect while occupying a space. As they merge, distinct perceptions are created by different individuals experiencing the space in their own way. Similarly, when larger spaces are entered, their form and proportions may overwhelm our image of the space, but the smaller-scale elements are the ones that engage our senses. The small details are capable of creating an exhilarating architectural space.
Can architecture’s power to exhilarate be explored through a multisensory approach?
Providing a multisensory experience
Architecture is primarily designed to cater to our visual senses. Spaces designed in the modern age are deprived of a sensory experience as a result of a technologized world. Not to undermine the value of image view, vision is a stimulus that starts acting at certain distances, so it is a bit detached from our body. To connect to space intimately, the other senses must be provoked.
Architecture and art are intensely connected since both convey a complex set of ideas that a viewer receives. Like architecture, art is multi-layered and tactile in nature. All art evokes sensory stimulation that may trigger cognition, nostalgia, or a range of emotions.
In a similar sense, architecture involves designing a space that evokes perception through a multisensory approach. While each sense has its own stimulus, the interaction among them also produces a variable response to a spatial design. So, this common thread between art and architecture can be reinforced with the engagement of multiple senses in design.
Brief of the Competition
Brief: Design an outdoor art school that explores the intensity of architecture to direct experience through multi-sensory design interventions.
The place will be an informal institute that will offer to learn to aspiring artists. It will be a meeting hub for artists across the city, for networking and exhibition of their works. The center must consist of open or semi-open spaces for conducting outdoor classes.
The ambiance of this center will be different from formal institutes and freedom to discover and learn at their own pace will be encouraged. Space should promote social, cognitive, and emotional development along with practical skills.
The aim of the design is to create a unique journey throughout the center for artists, audiences, and visitors. The senses of sight, sound, smell, and touch must be engaged in the design. Social spaces must be designed to support interaction among local artists and potential sponsors.
Design Objectives
•Purpose: The center will be a landmark of a new approach to learning arts. The design must be inspired by local art, architecture, and culture.
•Multi-functional: The center will accommodate various functions like learning, exhibition, and live events which will require flexible spaces for large crowds.
•Balance: Privacy and interaction must be guided in the layout as per the nature of the activity. The balance between aesthetics and functionality, as well as open, semi-open, and closed learning spaces.
•Harmony: The design must establish some harmony or connection with the surroundings while having outstanding features.
•Context: The design must respond to the (existing) site conditions. The wider socio-cultural, economic, and environmental settings are to be considered in the design approach.
Site
The site is located in Chicago, United States. Chicago is a populous urban area and an international hub for artists and art lovers. The art and architecture of the city are renowned worldwide which also makes it a very popular tourist attraction.
The art scene of Chicago has translated from ceramic and sculptures to street art and illustrations. Public art can be found all over the city and international art displays in museums. The architecture is inspired by the unique Chicago art and many landmark structures are built to complement the rich city scene. This city would be an ideal location for an art school.
The site is adjacent to on-ground parking. The site is a corner plot located at the intersection of East 60th Street and South Cottage Grove Avenue. Washington Park is the front view of the site and with heavy footfall in the area, the typology can become a recognized public space.
•Site area = 1665 sq.m.
•Height restriction = 9 metres
•Maximum Built Up Area = 1248 sq.m
•Ground coverage = 20%
•Coordinates = 41°47'07.9"N 87°36'20.5"W
Area Programme
The following programmatic outline is the point to begin your design at. You can add more functions and activities in relevance or modify the below design program.
The education wing of the art garden will cater to 30 students. Educational facilities will include Learning Studios, Multimedia room ~ 20–30% of built space
•Public Access: Exhibition hall, Gallery, Cafeteria, Terrace garden ~ 30–40% of built space
•Administration: staff offices ~ 10% of built space
•Art Garden: Open Studio, Pavilion, Courtyard, and so on.
Find all the competition brief, terms, and other registration guidelines on this
page: Art Garden | Urban Design Competition on UNI | About
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