Notes on Perceptual Qualities of Space: Dwelling Spatial Organization

Space is a very complex phenomenon and has engaged many areas of discipline for a long time. This complexity is even starker in architecture where it is not only an abstract phenomenon that exists in the mind, but also a concrete corporeal reality, that critical juncture where the mind and body of the user interact with physical space. User-space relationship is a dialectical process where space affects users and users influence space during occupation. Moreover, much emphasis has been put on the functional qualities of space and the design of dwelling spaces has not been an exception in this regard. On the contrary, the effects of spaces on users are not solely based on their functional qualities. By extension, function-based design of space with objective functional requirements and spatial measurements to the required square meters is simply not enough for users’ satisfaction which occurs at many levels. This study therefore argues that spatial design, in order to be successful, must take into account the subjective aspirations of users in conjunction with the objective functional requirements, and post-occupancy allowances made for the enrichment of the spatial experience through time. Using the sample analyses based on documentary research as its methodology, this thesis aims to have a review on the non-measurable qualities of spatial organization in dwelling spaces within the framework of two main theoretical concepts: Morris’ (2004) “sense of space” and Ola Nylander’s (2007) work on the “non-measurable qualities of space.” Accordingly, the objective is to investigate and discover the spatial qualities provided by space organization that potentially turns space into ‘place’ as people (users) would it to suit their social, economic and cultural aspirations and their everyday lives and the lessons that can be learnt from this as useful knowledge to be applied in house design. As a result, seven key factors were found to be relating to the non-measurable quality of space organization in dwelling space. After investigating these key factors, in three well-known samples the essential role key factors were derived in the characteristic of dwelling spatial organization. Also, this study find the possibility that dwelling spatial organization provide a Focal space within them that determine the characteristic of the spatial organization. This study can contribute to the design process and help achieve common values that could explain the process of perception of space and the reasons that some spaces become more pleasant for the users and how potential activities become important in such circumstances. Keywords: Keywords: Spatial Organization, Dwelling Spaces, Sense of Space and Place, Non-Functional Spatial Features, Non-measurable Spatial Qualities