In the heart of Istanbul, an old primary school building stands as a testament to time, its walls whispering stories of the past. This historic structure, designed by Mimar Kemalettin in the early 20th century, is not just a building; it’s a repository of memories, a canvas upon which individual and collective experiences are etched. Recent research led by Yekta Özgüven from Maltepe University has delved into the intricate relationship between memory and perception, exploring how historic buildings like Bostancı Primary School are experienced and remembered in both physical and virtual environments.
Özgüven’s study, published in the Journal of Design for Resilience in Architecture and Planning (Journal of Sustainable Architecture and Urban Planning), employs a multi-layered approach to understand how architectural elements and spatial perception contribute to memory formation. The research involved 20 senior architecture students who experienced the building both physically and through virtual reality (VR). Their memories were then analyzed using a dual thematic framework of Architectural References (AR) and Sensory References (SR).
The findings are intriguing. While architectural references were recalled more frequently in both environments, VR experiences led to higher rates of episodic memory activation. “Virtual reality eliminates physical barriers, enhancing spatial comprehension and allowing users to engage with the space in a unique way,” Özgüven explains. On the other hand, physical experiences more strongly activated semantic memory, with the tactile nature of physical space providing deeper sensory engagement.
This research has significant implications for the energy sector, particularly in the realm of heritage conservation and tourism. As Özgüven points out, “Virtual technologies can facilitate complex, layered memory engagements beyond physical constraints.” This means that VR could be used to create immersive experiences of historic buildings, allowing visitors to explore and engage with these structures in ways that are not possible in the physical world.
Moreover, the study highlights the potential of VR in preserving and promoting historic buildings. By creating detailed virtual replicas, these buildings can be experienced by a global audience, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of their cultural significance. This could lead to increased tourism, generating revenue and promoting sustainable development.
The research also underscores the importance of preserving the original architectural features of historic buildings. As Özgüven notes, “Participants predominantly recalled historical architectural features, with minimal reference to recent alterations.” This suggests that the collective memory of a building is deeply tied to its original design, and preserving these features is crucial for maintaining its cultural significance.
In the future, this research could shape the way we approach heritage conservation and tourism. By leveraging virtual technologies, we can create immersive experiences that not only preserve the past but also engage and educate the public. As Özgüven concludes, “This research contributes to the interdisciplinary discourse on memory and perception, proposing a comprehensive model that evaluates how historic buildings are perceived and remembered differently depending on the mode of experience.” This model could be a valuable tool for architects, conservators, and policymakers, guiding them in their efforts to preserve and promote our shared cultural heritage.