Extrospective design
Exploring how immersive observation and empathy exercises could improve the architectural design process
M.E. Perez (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
Dan C. Baciu – Mentor (TU Delft - History, Form & Aesthetics)
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Abstract
This thesis investigates the origins of the issues within the client and architect dynamic and dissects the reasons for miscommunication. With this understanding I investigate how method actors approach empathy and effectively communicate the physical and emotional aspects of their character. In dissecting the core elements of ‘the method’, I will apply these guidelines to a more realistic example through the case study of Nikki S. Lee in her work Projects (1997 - 2001) to see how the method techniques can be applied in realistic scenarios. Moreover, I apply these tactics to the client-architect dynamic and its ability to improve the way humans empathize with each other. In understanding the main reoccurring issues within the architect and client relationship and the origins of method acting, I apply these methodologies to a more realistic example: artist Nikki S. Lee. I analyze the works of Nikki S. Lee and dissect her multidisciplinary approach and creative process to understanding subcommunities. Through analyzing the photographs in Projects, I explore the process’s potential application to the initial architectural design phases. Through my research, I investigate how these cross-disciplinary approaches could aid in the design process to effectively create more responsive and mindful spaces. With these applications, could method acting techniques be applied to the design process? And if so, how would these methods be beneficial? This paper merges interviews, psychology research, photography, and architectural experiences to support my proposal for a new multidisciplinary inspired architectural design approach: extrospective design.