Sensing spaces: Architecture reimagined

A unique exhibition was hosted by the Royal Academy of Arts (RA) main galleries in London - until April 2014. Sensing spaces: Architecture reimagined brought together seven architectural practices from around the world. The RA commissioned invited architects to create site-specific installations; the common theme is exploring the essential elements of architecture. Instead of conventional representations of buildings or projects in the form of models, plans or photographs, RA redefines the traditional architectural exhibition, inviting visitors into a unique, multi-sensory experience. The set of interventions considers architecture from the perspective of human encounter and shows how sight, touch, sound and memory play a determining role in our perception of space, proportions, materials and light.

The audience encountered structures, textures, sounds, spaces and even smells. A monumental structure by Pezo von Ellrichshausen occupies most of the galleries (6), twisting the notion of perspective; inspired by traditional Japanese essences (tatami and hinoki) Kuma emphasizes the spatial importance of this sense (4); Kere's proposed tunnel invites visitors to physically interact with the material of the structure through which they pass (3); a labyrinth by Li Xiaodong generated a sense of isolation and compression of dimensions (2), in contrast to Grafton's (1) exploration of light opening up space. The subtle installations presented by Siza and Souto de Moura encouraged people to consider the architectural history of the building differently (5).

A specially made movie gave visitors the opportunity to "meet" the architects. The movie features a number of previous projects, but charmingly transports the viewer from a house on the Chilean coast to a school in Burkina Faso, Africa. Filmed interviews with the architects added to our understanding of where they work and what inspires them.

Kate Goodwin and Drue Heinz are the curators of architecture at R A. In opening the exhibition Sensing spaces they said, "Architecture is ever-present in the background of our lives, and we often fail to recognize its impact. We challenged the architects in this exhibition to create an experience that appeals to the senses and sparks the imagination. In doing so, we hope to transform the way we think about the spaces around us and the way they make us feel."

Photo: Bogdan Iurașcu