A House and a Studio for a Cabinet Maker
My exploration into seduction has led me into areas that I had not anticipated when I first proposed this as a thesis topic, but it is difficult to say with any certainty where the boundaries of seduction lie and what it encompasses. Although at first glance it may seem contrary to propose such a prosaic and ordinary program as a means of studying seduction, it comes about as a result of these unexpected tangents. A house and a Studio for a Cabinet Maker addresses four main issues that I feel are relevant in my exploration: materiality, the importance of craft, and its relationship with nature and the everyday
Materiality
Sensuality is the connection between man and the environment, mediated through the body. Touch, smell, taste, sound and sight are the gateways to the world of sensuality, and must be considered inportant attributes of any object. The choice of materials in architecture as in cabinetmaking is often based simply on functional and economic reasoning, limiting their capacity to engage us. Sensuality can be achieved by exploring other qualities of materials; texture, color, transparency as well as acoustical qualities and odor.
Craftsmanship
For architecture to seduce us it must first be able to communicate. Perez-Gomez wrote,"If architecture is to have poetic meaning, we must recognize that what it says is not independent of what it is"*. The expression and craftsmanship of any object, large or small is a translation of the idea and passion of another human being and serves to connect us with them. These are the fertile grounds of seduction.
* Perez-Gomez, Alberto. The Space of Architecture: Meaning as Precence and Representation. A+U, July 1994, Special Issue
The Everyday
Referring back to Dissanayake's quote, the power of art (or architecture) lies in its ability to restore sensual and emotional power to the realm of the everyday. Thus the authentic experience of daily routine becomes enriched.
Nature
In considering the power of seduction and the potential impact of our environment, we need only look to the natural world. Nature incorporates elements that appeal to all the senses and offers immense inspiration. It is my intention to include nature in my design, whether that be through natural materials, or through exterior spaces.
