The Architectural Model as Augmenting a Sensory Ethnography

Abstract

This study explores the effectiveness of the architectural model as a means of implementing a sensory ethnographical research methodology. An architectural model, constructed as part of a wider design research approach, became the visual probe in a site-specific participatory ‘place-event’ with field experts. Using physical objects in sensory ethnography is well established, however, the application of architectural models in this methodological approach has not previously been documented to the authors’ knowledge. The architectural model was shown to be an effective visual probe, a means to implement a sensory ethnography research methodology in the field of architecture. Furthermore, the site-specific nature of the event generated a site-specific conversation that would not have occurred in a more conventional context. The event also made a valuable contribution to the field of architectural research, by demonstrating that a model can challenge the design of a research project from different perspectives, in a similar way to how architectural models challenge the design of buildings. This research is part of a wider study that examines the relationship between material possessions and housing design, and the findings were used to refine the use of visual probes in the later stages of the wider study.

Keywords:

• architectural design
• design research
• sensory ethnography
• design process

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors. The authors would like to thank Dr Paul Shepherd and Dr Shawn Sobers, for their help in preparing the manuscript. Additional thanks go to the photographer, Justine Frost, who kindly gave permission for the photographs to be published.

Notes on contributors

Elena Marco

Elena Marco has worked as an architect in Spain and the UK for over 10 years, where she built a strong profile in sustainable design. Now in academia, she continues to develop her research interests, which focus on the crossover between health, sustainability and architecture.

Katie Williams

Katie Williams is an urban theorist, planner and urban designer. She specializes in sustainable urban environments and is known for her work on sustainable neighbourhood design, urban form and land reuse.

Sonja Oliveira

Sonja Oliveira’s research expertise is built on developing new insights into energy simulation and design practice across scales of analysis from policy level to global reviews.

Danielle Sinnett

Danielle Sinnett is an environmental scientist with expertise in green infrastructure, primarily as a mechanism to regenerate brownfield and contaminated land.