Sensorial Space

Project 3: Sensorial Experience; Sensory Space I Space

(Ind) We were challenged to incorporate all that we learned in Project 1 and 2 about architectural design elements and principles, tectonics, ergonomics, materials and anthropometry, into the design of a 20m³ sensorial space.

The user's experience throughout the structure had to be based on the different human senses and emotions, igniting a response from them as they would experience during the pandemic.

< Final Model. Southeast perspective view.

Design Intentions

Narrative: Throughout the pandemic, people have experienced numerous changes in their lives, both swift and slow. I wanted this sensorial space to reflect this process of change in a positive, relieving light, allowing users to familiarize themselves with the ups and downs of adjusting onself to new circumstances.

Theme: Change

Emotions: Uncertainty >> Familiarity >> Calm >> Relaxed/Confident

Banal Action: Crawling, Stepping up, Crouching, Sitting, Stepping down.

Initial Sketches

Taking design elements and principles from Project 2, I wanted the structure for Project 3 to have emphasis on rhythm and repetition and form. I also wanted to re-incorporate the use of light for the sensorial experience by manipulating its intensity throughout the structure. Then, I determined that the structure should also have variations in either height or depth to differentiate between the different stages of change.

Through rough sketches, I explored how the structure could be experienced, its form as well as how shapes could be manipulated throughout the structure.

Design Journal

Attempts 1,2,3

Representing a cycle, the ideas I had were all circular in overall course. Users would end up near the start of the course again.

The initial idea incorporated steps of different height. The uneven ground made it more of an obstacle course, and was not very comfortable to navigate.

I was also concerned about the constructability of the structure, and attempted to improve upon these things.

The next attempt was not fruitful. There was a lack of a proper enclosed space and an underutilization of volume. I was too heavily influenced by the form of a bus stop and sundial that I failed to consider the 'space' of the structure.

As it was too bland, I was advised to return to my initial sketches and develop from there.

The third attempt was successful in showing sensorial qualities. The user would start at a briefly dark space before entering a partially lit area. After ascending this area, the user is basked in natural ight, soften by the wooden texture. This warm area is a place of rest, where the user can step across and sit facing the general source of light (not directly).

Looking back, there were supporting structures and tectonics that could be improved for the final model. However, time constraints and insufficient preparation hindered me from implementing these improvements.

Final Model

Split into 4 different area, they represent the different stages in the cycle of change:

Contemplation
Preparation and Action
Maintanence
Relapse

The first stage is a shadowy crawl space, brief in experience, representing the initial acceptance that change must occur. It is a letdown that must be felt before improvements to one's life can be made.

In the case of the pandemic, this could refer to time management, lack of self-care, neglect of certain duties or relationships etc.

The second stage is the partially lit steps. Covered in a layer of skin in the semblence of a geodesic dome, this stage is the implementation of strategies towards change. While the outcome of the actions taken has not yet revealed itself, the future is bright and a path is clear.

The third stage, maintenance is represented by the regular repetition of the hexagon shapes, showing routine and steadiness.

There's a clear plan of action and better grasp of one's surroundings, as it is the most well-lit area.

Finally, the user ends the cycle by entering and exiting relapse, an equally quick descent to the first crawling space.

Users identify another change must occur, but even though the space has become dim once more, they are not as uncertain as they were at the beginning. This is because they are now more familiar with the change process and have a more relaxed mindset the next time around.

Final Presentation Slides

Final Presentation Boards

Reflection

My critical and creative thinking skills were lacking for this project. I did not fully consider the constructability of the structure nor the practicality of using regular octagons as the standard shape of the spaces. Fortunately, I was still able to exercise the application of ergonomics and anthropometry here, and my drawing skills have been honed.

My intrapersonal skills must be better managed as well. I caused significant delays in the project due to my inability to handle personal issues. I will reflect on this and take it as a humbling period in my learning journey.

MLO 1

MLO 1 - Produce design concepts through the process of exploring various sources and abstracting ideas.

The precedent studies I conducted helped to establish a clearer image of the final structure. Going back to them and expanding on ideas from there helped to see different possibilities after the failed second attempt.

MLO 2

MLO 2 - Identify key architectural design elements and principles and
employ them in creating an architectural composition that
demonstrates space-making.

I was able to apply flowing rhythm along with regular repetition with the use of a base geometric shape, applying lessons from Project 1.

MLO 3

MLO 3 - Relate the idea of the individual ‘self’ and the body’ to space and its experiential qualities.

Thinking about how the body had to lower itself and rise up again throughout the structure was challenging yet meaningful.

MLO 4

MLO 4 - Establish a basic level of understanding of materiality and detailing as means to capture experiential qualities of the design.

Through the studies, I understand that even a single material can have different tones and uses depending on its making and handling, and how joinery is presented can influence the experience as well.