Impact of Authoritative Elements on Placemaking in Architecture

Abstract

The understanding in the differentiation between spaces and places is vital in architecture. One deals with the physical dimensions that constitute the physical form and boundary while the other is an edifice that contributes to the narrative of the user and is people-centric. Spaces and Places are not mutually exclusive owing to the fact that any place intrinsically stems from a space. However the components that define each of these phenomena differ in intent during their creation. All spaces employ the use of metrics to generate lines, planes, volumes. Well-designed spaces combine these tangible metrics with creativity and a keen focus on aesthetics that bear positively on the physical manifestation and composition of these forms. Places go beyond creating purely aesthetic spaces and engage the user/s in a dynamic dialogue that helps the user forge an emotional and/or spiritual connect to the place. There are several elements which aid in the creation of such place. Of these, authoritative elements may be considered to lend authenticity to design. This paper tests the hypothesis that authoritative elements are key influencers of Placemaking in Architecture.