OASE91

Gernot Böhme investigates the meaning of the notion of atmosphere in the work of theoretician Pallasmaa and practicing architect Zumthor. What binds their approaches is the central role of the future user; a critical attitude towards modernism; a focus on other senses than the visual; and the plea for a dynamic reciprocity between detail and whole in the design process – as opposed to a linear process. Further, they share a great appreciation for craftsmanship. However, there are differences, too. While for Pallasmaa ‘embodied image’ is a central notion, Zumthor’s emphasis is on materiality. As a critical remark, Böhme states that both architects have not fully explored the potential that the theme of atmosphere has to offer to architecture. While architects often focuses on mathematical space, Böhme claims that finally, it is the space of physical presence that matters.