The default conception in the Western world of our interaction with space distinguishes the person from space. Juhani Pallasmaa takes issue with this type of thinking, asserting that we do not live in an objectified world of matter and facts in everyday reality. The typical human way of life unfolds in a world of possibilities, which are shaped by human potential for memory and imagination.1 We live in a world where the actual, the remembered and the imagined blend completely into one another. He, just like The Urban Yoga, advocates a complex concept of space: the physical, geometric space, and the existential one that we experience.2
Existential aspect of space is defined experientially, as a world of possibilities which depends on our cognitive abilities, feelings, thoughts, imagination and dreams.3 The structure of existential aspect of space is based on the significance and values which are a consequence of our conscious and subconscious reflections.4 It offers us a unique experience, where the inner or cognitive world and the outer, surrounding world blend and merge.5 The physical aspect of space is manifested through the rules of Euclidean geometry and can be described in concrete terms, measured and understood on a conscious level.
We perceive and experience the physical and existential aspects of space simultaneously,6 as we move through space, while on both the conscious and subconscious levels we gather information on the space potential of the cities that we live in. So, go out the door and into the city to find your place in urban space.
For more check out The Urban Yoga book.All future proceeds from the books will be used for further research and production costs for the second edition of The Urban Yoga project that aims to take an utmost exciting turn! I do this so that The Urban Yoga research can remain entirely independent, self-directed, and transparent. By purchasing a book, you can help The Urban continue to grow in a way that remains focused on inspiring people to look at the magic of space, breathing new human-oriented life into the efficient and industrial world of urban architecture and design – and nothing else. Thanks to everyone for your continued support.
1 Juhani Pallasmaa, The Architecture of Image. (Hämeelinna: Building Infromation Ltd, 2001), 18.
2 Ibid, p. 129
3 Ibid, p. 129
4 Ibid, p. 129
5 Ibid, p. 129
6 Juhani Pallasmaa, The Architecture of Image. (Hämeelinna: Building Infromation Ltd, 2001), 18.