Phenomenology within Architecture

Phenomenology in architecture is a theoretical approach that emphasizes the importance of the individual's subjective experience of the built environment. It originated from the works of philosophers such as Edmund Husserl and Martin Heidegger, who emphasized the importance of subjective experience in understanding reality.

In architecture, phenomenology refers to the ways in which the built environment affects our perceptions, emotions, and experiences. It involves designing spaces that create a connection with the user and their surroundings, and taking into account the sensory qualities of light, sound, texture, and materials.

As architects, we should always keep in mind the theory of phenomenology while designing. We should aim to create spaces that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also provide an experience that goes beyond the physicality of the space.

Collaboration is also a vital aspect of phenomenology in architecture. Designers should be open to working with other disciplines, such as artists, engineers, and psychologists, to create spaces that evoke a particular emotion or response.

The Harpa Concert Hall in Iceland and the Milwaukee Art Museum are excellent examples of architecture that reflects the principles of phenomenology. In both projects, the designers collaborated with artists to create spaces that evoke specific emotions and responses from the users.

The Harpa Concert Hall, designed by Henning Larsen Architects, is a remarkable piece of architecture that reflects the natural surroundings of Iceland. The building's facade, designed in collaboration with artist Olafur Eliasson, mimics the basalt columns found on the edges of the island, creating a strong connection between the building and its surroundings.

The Milwaukee Art Museum, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is another excellent example of phenomenology in architecture. The building's exterior shading system, which opens and closes like the wings of a bird, controls the light that enters the space and creates a unique sensory experience for the users.

The theory of phenomenology is an essential aspect of architecture that should be considered by all designers. It reminds us to design spaces that go beyond functionality and aesthetics and provide an emotional and sensory experience for the users. Collaboration with other disciplines is also vital in achieving this goal.