The Architecture We Feel: Reflecting on the Senses in Design

Architecture has shifted from a balanced sensory experience to an emphasis on visual hegemony, which is associated with modern Western design thinking. This is the argument Juhani Pallasmaa presents in The Eyes of the Skin. I agree with his claim because many contemporary buildings prioritize superficial design and visual appearance over lived human experience. Spaces have shifted from being a multisensory experience to the question, "How will this look in a photograph?"

To begin with, the idea of grand modern structures has become an ideal for many wealthy nations. The scale of towers and their glass façades has often been prioritized over designing buildings that respond to the region's climate and topography. This trend is particularly evident in desert regions that have undergone rapid development over the past century. The extensive use of glass façades in an already hot climate not only creates interiors that are uncomfortably warm but also produces environments that feel disconnected from their surroundings.

In contrast, historical spaces are often more closely grounded in the needs of people. This is evident in Souq Waqif in Doha, Qatar, a historic marketplace built with local materials by the people who used it. The scale of the shops resembles everyday human needs, while the narrow pathways provide shade from the intense desert sun. To this day, many people consider Souq Waqif their favourite place in Qatar because it engages all the senses. Visitors hear footsteps echoing on limestone and birds chirping overhead. They feel the rough yet thermally comfortable texture of the stone walls. They smell herbs and spices drifting from nearby shops and restaurants, carried naturally by the movement of the air. Finally, vision helps visitors navigate the market while connecting these sensory experiences into a cohesive and immersive whole.

In conclusion, the contemporary emphasis on digital imagery and technology has created an imbalance that often prioritizes surface-level visuals over intentional, human-centered design. It is becoming an increasingly concerning cycle that deserves greater attention. I fear we are losing a sense of authenticity by embracing spaces that lack genuine sensory engagement. Architecture should engage all the senses simultaneously in order to create environments that are meaningful, grounded, and deeply connected to the people who inhabit them.