In the heart of every architect lies a child’s memory, a spark that ignites their understanding of space and form. This is the compelling premise explored in a recent study published in the journal *Architecture, Civil Engineering and Geodesy* (AGG+), led by Jelena Stanković Aćić from the Faculty of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Geodesy at the University of Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The research delves into how our earliest spatial memories, particularly those of rooms, shape our architectural consciousness and, by extension, the buildings we design and inhabit.
Stanković Aćić and her team analyzed the spatial recollections of 78 architecture students, uncovering seven recurring themes that resonate with the philosophical reflections of renowned architect Louis Kahn. These themes—light and openings, haptic experience, child-scale perception, the room as a refuge, integration of organic elements, spaces defined by movement, and rooms activated by human presence—paint a vivid picture of how our earliest experiences with space influence our architectural sensibilities.
“The room is not just a physical space; it’s a constellation of memory, identity, and embodied experience,” Stanković Aćić explains. This insight suggests that architectural theory is deeply rooted in universal human experiences, not just intellectual constructs. For the energy sector, this research could have profound implications. Understanding how people perceive and interact with spaces can lead to more intuitive and efficient building designs, ultimately reducing energy consumption and enhancing occupant comfort.
One of the most striking findings is the significance of light and openings. As Kahn once mused, “Light is the giver of all presence.” This emphasis on natural light could inspire architects and builders to prioritize daylighting strategies, reducing the need for artificial lighting and lowering energy costs. Similarly, the theme of haptic experience—how we interact with surfaces and textures—could drive innovations in sustainable materials that are both tactilely pleasing and energy-efficient.
The study also highlights the importance of child-scale perception, a concept that could revolutionize the design of educational and residential spaces. By creating environments that cater to the spatial needs and experiences of children, architects can foster creativity and learning, while also promoting energy-efficient layouts that maximize natural light and ventilation.
As we look to the future, this research suggests that the room is not just a starting point for architectural design but a foundation for a more sustainable and human-centered approach to building. By tapping into the wellspring of childhood memories, architects can create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply resonant with our collective human experience. This could lead to a new era of architectural design that is both innovative and deeply rooted in the universal language of space and memory.
In an industry often driven by technological advancements and material innovations, this study serves as a reminder that the most profound insights often come from within—from the memories and experiences that shape our understanding of the world. As Stanković Aćić’s research shows, the room is more than just a physical space; it’s a canvas for human experience, a starting point for architectural evolution.