Thesis Abstract 02

Facing Temporality: The Architecture of Atmospheres

Atmospheres are spaces that have the ability to move us. Their presence stirs in the depths of our subconscious, and demands an emotional understanding of place – they are, by this nature, illusive and resistant to definition. This thesis makes reference to the study of atmospheres as it is approached in three schools of thought; the phenomenology of space, architecture as it is processed by the senses, and understanding atmospheres in their typologies. Peter Zumthor catalogues the varying sensory properties of building materials and their effect on the mood of a space, while simultaneously defining atmospheres through relentlessly descriptive writings, and imagery to further convey his meaning. In the work of Juhani Pallasmaa, our experience of space is more strictly attributed to the five senses, with criticism placed on our reliance on the visual aspects of architecture. Gaston Bachelard, in his The Poetics of Space, breaks atmospheres into their typologies in order to further understand the character of certain spaces. This thesis focuses on the Atmosphere of Decay, and how it approaches the burial site in contemporary culture; for it is in understanding these spaces that we can begin to understand our own temporality.

It is the intention of this thesis to further explore and unveil the meaning of experiential space, and to uncover the beauty inherent in the natural process of decay. How does a space of great presence and distinct character come to exist? What is it that defines an atmosphere? The cool, awe-striking serenity of an expansive stone cathedral, the invigorating warmth and bustle of a vibrant city marketplace, the charming golden haze of a haphazard night-time cafe; atmospheric places evoke emotion, sensation, and memory, giving identity to both visitor and architecture. How can atmosphere respond to the question most deeply rooted in our collective human identity, that of death, and what is its role in fathoming the unfathomable?

In an attempt to answer these questions the thesis will rigorously document atmospheres with the presence of temporality. Spaces that have succumbed to the natural process of decay will be explored in great detail through the employment of photography, film, watercolour painting, literature, and installation work. The methodology used will develop a language for discussing the atmospheric qualities of space, and conveying the experiential identity of the environments documented. Film is intended to capture the expanse and eerie stillness of decay, while painting, writing, and photography are the means of capturing the mood of the space. Installation art will encompass all of the aforementioned qualities and will serve to communicate the intense emotional understanding of place to others.