Steven Holl : a translation of phenomenological philosophy into the realm of architecture

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2004
Yorgancıoğlu, Derya
In this thesis it is aimed to develop a particular reading of Steven Holl̕s approach to architecture. It is claimed that in Holl̕s architecture there is a philosophical depth that embraces both his thinking on and making of architecture. This thesis suggests that, the phenomenology of Maurice Merleau-Ponty, the French philosopher (1908-1961) is Steven Holl̕s main reference in achieving a philosophical depth in architecture. The thesis research focuses on understanding Holl̕s approach to architecture and its relation to Merleau-Ponty̕s phenomenological philosophy. In the second part of the thesis, in aiming to unfold how the design process develops the study focused on the intellectual framework in Holl̕s architecture. Specific concepts that Holl dwells upon are examined in relation to their philosophical references. This section also comprises a focus on the architect as the subject of architectural practice. In the third part, the phenomenological framework in the way Holl makes architecture is studied by examining how he relates building with site and situation; body to architectural space; body and architecture to time. This examination concludes with an inquiry in the haptic sensibility of the architect into articulating spaces and forms. Lastly, the forth part involves a study on Holl̕s particular projects, through which it is aimed to examine the architectural embodiment of his phenomenological approach. The thesis research in Steven Holl̕s architectural approach, which is held through his thinking on and making of architecture, opens up a field of study about the practice of an architect and the philosophical engagement of architecture.

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Citation Formats
D. Yorgancıoğlu, “Steven Holl : a translation of phenomenological philosophy into the realm of architecture,” M.Arch. - Master of Architecture, Middle East Technical University, 2004.