Contribution to comprehending symbolism and meaning of architectural form

Rifat Alihodžić,Svetlana Golovina

doi:10.1051/matecconf/201710601046

Abstract

Architectural form and space, from the very beginning of their creation, weren’t only elements reflecting mere act of building; as the act of human actions, they included proper symbolic presentation of a creator's perception of the world. The initial point is that each physical, therefore each architectural form, speaks volumes on more than just their purpose, so it can have symbolic meanings, being proved in history of architecture for such a long time. While observing architectural form, these two questions impose. The first question refers to identifying usable purpose of particular facility, in other words, its function. The second question imposes to identify what are the things that we are reminded of concerning that particular facility. This second question represents search for the meaning in each form that mankind instinctively longs to identify in order to comprehend the world we live in. No matter if we are in natural or building area, everything we are surrounded by has got specific forms recalling certain associations. The aim of this paper is to indicate that pictures appearing as a consequence of close forms and designs represent associations and they should not be compared to symbols. The goal of this research is to contribute to clearer seeing of symbolism of architectural form, in which situations it exists and whether it exists in contemporary architectural forms. This work is based on elements of Gestalt observation theory.

Highlights

Before any further elaboration, it is essential to clearly define and separate concepts such as „symbol“ and „sign“
It is essential to denote that metaphors, created by architectural form, originate from design expressing and its reflection on our vision
The fact is that domes used outside sacral architecture are strongly connected to religious symbolism of sky and its physical imitation

Summary

Introduction

It is essential to clearly define and separate concepts such as „symbol“ and „sign“. Word „symbol“ is very common identification of a trademark or a label on some product This fact is indicative itself, because contemporary society lacks and tends to lose symbolic meanings at all. [2] A little baby expresses their needs by crying, which is a proper way of communication until they grow up and start using system of signs in order to satisfy their expectations This way, a child uses the fact that objects can represent each other. It is essential to denote that metaphors, created by architectural form, originate from design expressing and its reflection on our vision. In perception, it shows certain qualities and situations important to mankind. The fact is that domes used outside sacral architecture are strongly connected to religious symbolism of sky and its physical imitation

Perceiving symbols

Conclusion