Abstract
Developed by Edward T. Hall in the 1950s and 1960s, the concept of proxemics examines how individuals use and perceive space in different social contexts. While its origins lie primarily in social science theories of spatial behaviour, proxemics remains one of the most tangible ways to trace the transfer of knowledge from the social sciences into the design disciplines. Although there have been various attempts to incorporate proxemics into architectural analysis and design, its implications and applications for urban analysis remain underexplored. This paper introduces the concept of Architectural Proxemics at an urban scale, investigating the reciprocal relationships between spaces, bodies, and human behaviour. We propose an approach for drawing and visualising proxemic patterns in public settings by presenting a methodology for generating maps of personal spaces as they interact within the built environment. Through a case study in Ohori Park, Fukuoka (one of Japan’s most historic and iconic parks) we tested this methodology by recording and mapping patterns of occupation. Using a proposed tool called Activity Counter Maps (ACM), we created maps representing individuals’ proxemic spaces integrated into a unified spatial configuration interacting with the park’s fabric. This allowed us to analyse the interplay between spatial organisation and human behaviour, as well as the interactions generated by these configurations. The resulting images proved effective in depicting and revealing aspects of these engagements. Finally, drawing on the findings from these maps, we discuss the broader potential of this methodology and its possible applications in advancing urban and architectural design.
Presenters
Glen Wash IvanovicSenior Lecturer in Architecture and Urbanism, Manchester School of Architecture, Manchester, United Kingdom
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Proxemics, Mapping, Place-theory
