Architecture of Perspective

Abstract

The physical experience of space is very different to the plan or sectional view used by architects to generate design. The way in which we experience the world is three dimensional and perspective drawing offers a much closer reflection of space than the flattened world of plans and sections. This thesis explores the proposition how perspective can be used as a driver for design as a way to challenge perceptions of space. Looking at how architects can design through experience, using view and perspective as a starting point provides an alternative way of considering design and ultimately generating architecture. Through this thesis the proposition is tested through design led research. Through each chapter research is related back to the proposition through an analysis of view, perspective and perception of space. This thesis starts by situating perspective and its role in architecture through key historical moments and contemporary use. This is followed by an analysis of key case studies, Georges Rousse, Adolf Loos and Zaha Hadid. Each of these case studies offers a unique approach to the treatment of view and perspective, as a way of challenging perception of space. To structure the design as research methodology, this thesis tests the proposition at three increasing scales. The proposition is first tested at the small scale, through the design and construction of a gallery installation. The second stage sees the proposition transferred to a house scale, before finally exploring the proposition through a public building design. The result is three designs that test the thesis proposition at three different scales with perspective and view as fundamental drivers.

These drivers are also expressed physically in the final outcome as they shape the form of the building. The final design expresses an over emphasis of perspective in combination with view alignment as a way of physically activating the experience of the space and thus challenging the perception that architecture is experienced in distraction.