Philosophical Questioning of Architecture with an Emphasis on Feng Shui

ABSTRACT: Architecture, which in its most basic description creates space for human habitation, should take the human being as the core of initiation in order to be successful. In this respect, since the beginning of this profession, theories and philosophies have continuously evolved. All ideas in these terms and all described building forms in architecture are efforts to provide better living environments, and thus, conditions to improve the quality of life of human beings in the architecture created. Changes over time, including various world events – economical, social and political - affect the needs of humans with regard to the spaces they use, which in turn require continuous updating. The main task of architecture is to create relevant spaces for people for determined functions. Together with the factors mentioned above, aspects like culture, social behavior patterns and lifestyle, as well as materials, production techniques and structural systems, are also causes of the ever-changing nature of architecture, just like life itself. Throughout this continuous evolution and change, architecture has had as its primary objective the creative organization of materials and forms. This creative process is ultimately part of a mutual relationship with the aforementioned parameters. Feng Shui, on the other hand, is closely relative to the natural environment – a relationship based on the empirical observation of the land form consistent with the flow of chi (living energy) in nature to achieve well being. The aim of this study is to interpret the aspects of “living well” in created architecture from the Feng Shui perspective to enhance the quality of living and contribute to the well being of humans on a scientific basis. Keywords: Architectural Space, Human-being, Philosophy, Feng Shui, Quality of Life. …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………