Interaction Narratives for Responsive Architecture

Abstract

In this position paper, we present the results of an ongoing theoretical investigation into the phenomenon of interactive architecture. Interaction in architecture deals with the meaningful exchange of information and physical acts between building and person. This goes beyond responsive systems like automated doors, shading systems, and so on. Most examples of interactive architecture are technological explorations that probe possibilities and the potential for interaction. In this paper we claim that this is not enough. The notion of interactive architecture is explored through social aspects, user experience, situatedness, and agent-based theory. From this we argue that interactive buildings need comprehensive and consistent styles of interaction rather than a series of isolated and unrelated interaction events. Different people in various contexts require different sets of behavior from an interactive building. These sets are conceptualized as interaction narratives, following the work of Maria Lehman. We argue that such narratives can provide a better fit of the interactive building with the user, and lead to a more profound understanding of such systems.

Apperception: Understanding and Anticipating the User in Space Based on Neural and Behavioural Responses

“…Based on this, the publication states that interactive buildings require complex and consistent styles of interaction, not an isolated range of options (such as a sun-responsive façade, window shading...). It seeks to offer insights into the understanding of interaction systems [7].…”

Responsive architecture: a bibliometric analysis of scientific production

“…Under such conditions, static solutions for maintaining thermal comfort conditions indoors are forcefully complex. Consequently, conventional building design processes are often insufficient (ACHTEN, 2019;THUN;VELIKOV, 2013).…”

“…The beginnings of the responsive architecture concept have their roots with the work of Cedric Price and Joan Littlewood and their Fun Place project (1961), a building capable to change according to visitors' desires. Those principles were followed by Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers (1977) and concretized with the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris, France (MEAGHER, 2015;ACHTEN, 2019).…”

Implementation of a Dynamic Thermal and Illuminance Control System in Responsive Facades: Shading Study

“…The function of a given building is subject to change throughout its life cycle due to changes in occupancy and users' needs. Passive strategies cannot cope with this dynamic demand [1]. Moreover, dealing with daily and seasonal weather variations (changes in radiation intensity and solar position, wind speed and direction, variations in humidity and outdoor temperature) with static and passive solutions can be a complex task [2].…”