Beyond geodesign : The architecture of sitesynthesis

Abstract

This paper presents sustainable architecture as a function of sensory experience through time. Entitled sitesynthesis, this proposed approach forms the foundation of a holistic design methodology grounded physically in the geographical location of a given community and metaphysically in the spirit of place derived from sense experience. Sitesynthesis is made up of sitescapes which range from natural to cultural to social landscapes, themselves the product of the sensescapes through timescapes. The site is the place in geological, archaeological and historical time. The symbiotic relationship between the natural, cultural and social environs which sitesynthesis endeavours to attain is mutualistic rather than parasitic, a relationship from which society and the site both benefit rather than the former benefiting at the expense of the latter.