Bookish Bytes: Exploring "The Eyes of the Skin: Architecture and the Senses" by Juhani Pallasmaa

Introduction

• Platform: Bookish Bytes - Exploring literature and its hidden treasures.
• Book: "The Eyes of the Skin: Architecture and the Senses" by Juhani Pallasmaa.
• Focus: Changing perception of architecture by engaging all senses, not just vision.

Key Arguments

• Dominance of Vision: Modern architecture overly focused on visual aspects.
  • Neglects multi-sensory approach.
  • Engaging all senses creates holistic and meaningful experiences.

Sensory Dimensions in Architecture

• Tactile Experiences:

  • Importance of touch highlighted.
  • Materials, textures, surfaces elicit sensations.
  • Creates intimate relationships with the built environment.

• Sound:

  • Acoustic qualities shape perception and emotional responses.
  • Materials influence sound perception in buildings.

• Smell:

  • Olfactory dimension enhances spatial experiences.
  • Materials like wood and stone contribute to distinct smells.
  • Scent can trigger memories and emotions, used in design.

Examples of Sensory Engagement

• Visual Perception:

  • Consider qualities of light, color, and form.
  • Critiques sight dominance, suggests stimulating visual spaces.

• Historical & Contemporary Architecture:

  • Louis Kahn’s Salk Institute:
    • Use of rough concrete and wooden elements for tactile experiences.
  • Alvar Aalto’s Villa Mairea:
    • Integration of natural light, nature, tactile materials for connection.
  • Peter Zumthor’s Therme Vals:
    • Sensory engagement through sound of water, smell of wood, warm stone floors.

Creating a Sense of Place and Belonging

• Engaging Senses:
  • Helps connect with surroundings.
  • Fosters identity and well-being.

Conclusion

• Challenge to Conventional Design:
  • Encourages architects to consider sensory aspects.
  • Provides insights into architecture's power to enrich lives.

Final Thoughts

• Audience: Beneficial for students, professionals, and architecture enthusiasts.
• Action: Like, subscribe, and share Bookish Bytes for more insights.