- Response to the spaces in which we live
- Examination of mathematical properties by measurement of surfaces to create data
- Reinterpretation of data to recognise physical properties using architectural materials
- Accessing experienced space and personal histories through investigative writing
The investigation of a familiar space within my own ‘dwelling’ immediately places this example in the realm of 'experienced space'. This constitutes the first ‘viewpoint’ and was primarily investigated by reflective writing. I have found the process of writing in a familiar space to be a powerful phenomenological tool and process for unlocking personal histories, resonances and associations.
A second viewpoint, investigating the room as a mathematical space, was explored by creating a small data set by measuring each of the edges and surfaces in the room. The creation of small data sets is intended as a record of a personal physical engagement with the subject. In this case I have physically touched and measured all these surfaces which contributes to me ‘knowing’ the space, primarily quantitatively but also qualitatively as it involves being physically close to many parts of the space which would otherwise not be visited in this way. It also results in observing shapes and textures which form the space, but which often remain unnoticed.
The data produced by measuring the room was analysed in a spreadsheet and reduced to twenty-two unique measurements, describing the mathematical properties of the room. These measurements were analysed in a spreadsheet and charted using the MS Excel charting tools.
I used the charted data in various ways, for example combining with architectural materials such as skirting board to produce a physical object from the analysis of mathematical space. I consider this a form of abstracted materials-based data visualisation which expresses a deconstructed view of architecture and mathematical space. The physical environment is translated into a language of dimensions, physical materials and visual elements.
By putting forward a deconstructed work comprised of sizes and materials, this also questions how we relate to the physical structures in which we live, how and by whom the form and solidity of those structures are determined, and how we decide (or how it is decided) how much space we inhabit. The use of solid construction materials also prompts thoughts about how our dwellings are the product of our economic and political systems and circumstances, e.g. we may take for granted that we live in houses made of solid materials which provide adequate shelter.
