Experiencing the space with a phenomenological approach: A method proposal for relating the senses with representation and design

Abstract

Today, in design education, designers can focus on image production rather than the experience of the space and the tactile qualities of the materials used. The study which was held with reference to this situation, aims to develop holistic perception skills; to discuss the interactive roles of the senses in perception and representation; to raise awareness about the concepts of place, volume, space; and to use this awareness in design. Within the scope of the workshop conducted with the undergraduate students of Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University, Department of Interior Architecture, the participants were asked to do sensory reading exercises in the places they chose and then to represent their sensations and to use this data in the design of a city furniture. After the design process a survey was conducted to get feedback from the students. The results confirm that vision is the primary sense in perception; the fact that students focus on different senses in the space did not change this situation. In the stage of representation, the form and movement elements in the spaces were the most effective. The significant relationship between reflection and design phases showed that representation studies have positive effects on design processes and that such practices can be included more frequently in education programs.