An Analysis of Phenomenological and Tectonic Sensitivities in Steven Holl’s Approach to Architectural Design

Abstract

Architectural design process, which aims to configure spaces of different functions within certain cultural and environmental contexts, proceeds through reasoned choices among alternative solutions. Philosophical concepts are used for analyzing the criterion and values guiding this intellectual process. Developed within philosophy in order to explore Being and the position of human perception within Being, phenomenology has been a frequent reference concerning the relation between architecture and philosophy since the second half of the 20th century. Exploring the multidimensional sensual experience of the body within space, architectural phenomenology is based upon tectonic sensitivity that relates spatial features with place-specific circumstances, human scale and sensual richness. This study aims to make a phenomenological and tectonic analysis of Knut Hamsun Center and St. Ignatius Chapel as distinguished works of Steven Holl. It is concluded that these designs are sources of architectural inspiration since they interpret specificities of place and present richness of experience by forming the sense of spatial belonging.