Thesis Abstract

Architecture has always been designed based on a visual world. An architect’s goal is to create buildings that people find aesthetically pleasing and can enjoy being in the spaces. Modern architecture has become more about simplicity and concrete or glass structures. By making buildings that appear “beautiful”, other senses could possibly be overlooked. The sense of touch is much different than any other human sense. It is the only sense does not pertain to a specific part of the body. It is the only way that people can physically interact with the world. By engaging physical contact with a building, a new layer of complexity and richness appear. Building materials have many different properties and can reflect certain feelings. Designing spaces that connect the human body with the materials allows people to form a physical and emotional understanding of a space. The history behind a material can drastically affect architecture. By approaching architecture through a variety of materials and its connection with people, future designs can be drastically altered.