Experiencing design: an architect's perspective

Abstract

The role of an architect is to design everyday objects, furniture, and architectural spaces. However, architects seldom experience their designs prior to and following their completion, preventing them from evaluating the quality of the design through its use. Architectural practice has traditionally prioritized visual representations in the design process and often neglects other sensory dimensions. Modern architectural discourse offers limited guidance on how architects can cultivate multisensory experiences within their built works. Thus, this thesis investigates experiential involvement in design and space from the architect’s perspective, transforming design from a visual representation into an experiential atmosphere. This research utilizes a literature review of experiential design, explores a case study of Finn Juhl’s theories of experiential design in furniture and architecture, and employs research-creation methods grounded in personal experience. Domestic architectural objects and furniture are analyzed as experiential tools that enhance interaction within the tested environment and the occupant’s experience. These tools are used beyond their aesthetic contribution and serve as architectural elements of space. The resulting insights are intended to improve the architect’s understanding of multisensory design and contribute to architectural design outcomes that support occupants’ experience, comfort, and spatial use.