Problem
Ways in which architecture is produced in the urban context has caused various typologies to blend. This pattern happening in architecture often results in one or two materials being quickly slapped on the facade, with little consideration as to what effect thsi skin will have on its occupants and surroundings.
Homogenous architecture is formed when a set of a few characteristics can be recognized in not only a single building, but in neighborhoods throughout the city. Factors contributing to this style could be typology, materials, and how the materials are assembled. But what effect does this have on us?
When a person has been living in or experiencing this type of area on a daily basis, I believe that they become detached fro mthe surrounding architecture. They feel no need or desire to experience architecture in ways other than taking a quick glance at a building and turning their heads away.
Consideration paid to what materials are used in a space and how they are assembled contributes to the likelihood of a person to use their senses other than sight while occupying that space. For example, they can be tempted to touch a surface based on its texture and color, resulting in a heightened interest with a building or space.
Has the presense of homogenous architecture influenced the degree to which touch, sound, and smell are used as primary experiential tools?
Hypothesis
With homogenous architecture negatively impacting the way our senses are used, I feel that it will be necessary to design program that allows people to express themselves in a way that the current environment denies them of doing. Careful consideration will be taken towards the effect certain materials will have on the context, user, and programmatic space. Through the activities of painting sculpting, music, and cooking, I believe that people can not only express themselves, but enhance the artistic and architectural experience by using all of their senses.
