MAKING SENSE: AN EXPLORATION IN MULTI-SENSORY DESIGN

Abstract

People view Architecture through a lens of sight. Often we learn from architecture from print media, the internet and other visual sources. This thesis aims to explore how one experiences architecture, not views it. To experience architecture, one needs to explore a work through all five senses: sight, smell, touch, taste, and sound. To create architecture, one must sculpt these sensory inputs. This experiential quality is especially important when considering people witedh sensory loss. Through this thesis one aims to help create independence for users of a space with hearing and/or vision loss through the incorporation of other sensory aspects within design. People with sensory loss often report feeling less satisfied in life and less independent than their peers. They also report higher degrees of loneliness and isolation. Through this work, one aims to help create a sense of community and independence. This is important to improve overall reports of life satisfaction for individuals with various degrees and types of sensory loss.