morf2 | secuencia espacial

Understanding Spatial Sequence in Architecture

Introduction to Spatial Sequence

• Architect María Inés Mónica introduces the topic of spatial sequence, part of thematic unit 2 on the phenomenology of space, focusing on perceptual and temporal dimensions in architecture.

• The interconnection between perceptual systems, spatial sequence, and scale is emphasized as foundational for understanding architectural experiences.

Key Aspects of Perception

• Four key aspects related to architecture are discussed:

• Three-dimensional nature: Architecture is perceived not just externally but also shapes surrounding space.

• Visual structure: Awareness of gravity influences our perception of vertical movement relative to the ground plane.

Depth and Facades

• The third aspect involves depth cues that indicate distance within a space, illustrated through texture.

• Importance is placed on facades as vertical planes that create a sense of stability; however, true experience involves dynamic interaction with three-dimensional volumes rather than static observation.

Temporal Dimension in Architecture

• The concept of temporal dimension emerges from early 20th-century theories like relativity, linking space inseparably with time.

• This shift influenced various fields including philosophy and arts, prompting a reevaluation of how architecture is conceived—focusing on user experience rather than mere geometric relationships.

Architectural Styles Pre-20th Century

• Historical architectural styles are examined for their geometric relationships and defined spaces.

• Contemporary architecture contrasts this by embracing fluidity where spaces connect visually and spatially, creating permeable volumes.

Transition Spaces and User Experience

• The idea of decomposing traditional room structures into independent planes fosters dialogue between interior and exterior spaces through transitional areas characterized by natural elements.

Understanding Spatial Sequences in Architecture

The Importance of Spatial Representation

• Architects rely on conceptual images and mental representations to understand space, emphasizing the significance of spatial sequences in design.

• Architectural designs are not created at full scale due to practical limitations; thus, architects depend on auxiliary representations like drawings and models for effective communication.

• Conventional representations (plans, elevations, sections) focus primarily on constructive and dimensional understanding, often neglecting sensory aspects such as sound and texture.

Exploring Diacronic Representations

• Diacronic representations (e.g., sequential sketches, videos, digital models) offer alternatives that address the limitations of conventional methods by focusing on architectural experiences rather than just objects.

• These experiences unfold through organized perceptions around specific events or episodes within a space, highlighting the narrative aspect of architecture.

Subjective Time and Space Perception

• The concept of subjective time is crucial for understanding spaces; it relates directly to personal perception and situates individuals in specific contexts.

• Concrete time is measurable (years, hours), cyclical, and can be manipulated by architects to enhance spatial qualities. Both concepts contribute to what is known as the phenomenology of space.

Phenomenology in Contemporary Architecture

• The phenomenology of space integrates philosophical ideas into architecture to develop a narrative understanding. This approach is shared among contemporary architects who express these ideas through their writings or works.

• Architect Palasma emphasizes that lived experience is shaped by peripheral vision which connects us more deeply with our surroundings compared to focused vision.

Engaging with Architectural Experience

• Eliana Bórmigas suggests that architectural phenomenology involves imagining how people move through spaces—considering colors, textures, and anecdotes related to their experiences.

• Saldarriaga highlights that perception, memory, imagination, and emotion are essential components of architectural experience; initial encounters with architecture often occur unconsciously.

Practical Applications in Design

• In line with Palasma's thoughts, architect Luis Barragán uses various tools (like light and water sounds) to enhance perception within his designs.

Exploring the Relationship Between Form and Function in Architecture

The Role of Sensory Experiences

• Discusses how bodily sensations accompany different movements, emphasizing that form and function are interconnected concepts applicable to housing.

• Highlights the importance of incorporating human presence in architectural projects, referencing public buildings and outdoor spaces like parks in Medellín.

Critical Perspectives on Architectural Design

• Introduces Palasma's critical viewpoint on architecture, focusing on how the dominance of sight over other senses has shaped our understanding and practice of architecture.

• Argues that all senses, including sight, are extensions of touch; thus, tactile experiences are fundamental to our interaction with space.

Memory and Perception in Spatial Understanding

• Explains that our perception of materiality, distance, and depth is rooted in tactile memory from early childhood experiences.

• Summarizes a key concept: "Vision reveals what touch already knows," underscoring the significance of tactile knowledge in spatial awareness.

Spatial Sequences as Narrative Tools

• Defines "spatial sequence" as a tool for creating intentional spatial situations that can be experienced continuously.

• Uses an example comparing different scales (e.g., faculty courtyard vs. home patio vs. football field) to illustrate how context influences spatial perception.

Gestalt Principles in Architectural Experience

• References Gestalt principles indicating that forms or spaces gain meaning through comparison rather than existing independently.

• Introduces the concept of "reading in sequence," which involves contrasting experiences to understand spatial qualities over time.

Approaching Buildings: Concepts by Francis Chin

Categories of Building Approach

• Outlines three types of building approaches: frontal, oblique, and spiral; each affecting visual clarity and perspective differently.

Frontal Approach

• Describes a frontal approach leading directly to the entrance with clear visual objectives defined by facades or entrances.

Oblique Approach

• Discusses how an oblique approach enhances perspective effects while allowing subjective manipulation of time during entry sequences.

Spiral Approach

• Explains that a spiral approach elongates entry sequences while emphasizing the building's three-dimensionality.

Case Studies for Contextual Understanding

• Analyzes Le Corbusier’s Casa Curuché Cunique as an example where both frontal and oblique approaches are possible due to its plaza location.

Additional Example: Casa del Puente

Access Design in Architecture

Continuity and Functionality of Access Points

• The design maintains the superficial continuity of walls while subtly integrating an advanced access point that highlights its function, providing protection with an elevated plane.

• Understanding material categories serves as a reference point for various configurations of access, emphasizing that entering can be as simple as crossing an opening on a flat surface.

• Alternative access forms are discussed, such as level changes to maintain visual and spatial continuity or using linear elements like parallel planes or porticos to achieve functional goals.

• A third option involves combining access with vertical elements alongside the facade plane, enhancing both aesthetic and functional aspects of entryways.

• The positioning of openings—whether centered or off-centered—affects the layout and activities within adjacent spaces, indicating that access decisions impact overall architectural form.

Architectural Examples: Curuchet House

• The Curuchet House exemplifies how access is framed by a large void that creates a virtual boundary between interior and exterior spaces.

• The presence of an elevated plane distinct from the sidewalk enhances the sense of shelter before entering the expansive interior space.

• In contrast, the Bridge House features a flush entrance designed to blend into its surroundings while also having defined edges at volume extremes for transitional space creation.

• This transition area allows for movement from outside to inside seamlessly, incorporating stair volumes that connect different levels within the home.

Exploring Museum Amargo: Spatial Dynamics

• The final segment focuses on sequential reading through comparative analysis of spaces in Buenos Aires' Museum Amargo, starting with an institutional video introduction to familiarize viewers with its context and structure.

• Observations reveal an elevated building allowing approach from multiple angles; it consists of two juxtaposed volumes distinguished by proportions and light contrasts.

• An elevated base indicates clear differentiation from street level while creating a protective transitional space beneath it through volume subtraction techniques.

• A large transparent plane signals entry while maintaining visual continuity between indoor and outdoor environments, offering opportunities for changing perspectives on urban landscapes.

Overview of Study Material and Key Concepts

Required Reading and Resources

• The class concludes with a recommendation for mandatory study material, including a chapter by Héctor Thomas titled "La Dinamización Espacial," which provides numerous illustrative examples on how we perceive buildings through sequential experiences.

• A chapter by Francine is highlighted, focusing on four categories related to movement and sequence within architectural spaces.

• Additional resources are provided to complement the required readings, enhancing understanding for the upcoming class discussions.

Optional Videos for Further Exploration

• An optional video explores subjective time through an experience in a sculpture at the Google Museum, emphasizing the relationship between subjective space and personal narratives during exploration.

• Two videos focus on notable architectural works: one discusses "Casa sobre el Arroyo" and "Casa del Puente de Mansión William," featuring historical insights illustrated through animations that depict characteristics from their construction period.