Richard Meier's Architecture as a Creator of Emotions and Meaningful Architectural Experiences

Abstract

Looking at the current sensory dynamics of the MACBA buildings in Barcelona and the Stadthaus in Ulm, both designed by Richard Meier, the question arises as on how to assess the meaningful architectural experiences of contemporary iconic buildings. This article aims to analyze such experiences, based on the research of both architect Julio Bermudez and Myung Eun Cho and Mi Jeong Kim on the eventualities of the architecture experience. It verifies how this unique and personal experience establishes a relationship between the individual and the architectural work, guided by the domains of phenomenology and environmental psychology. These works are toured applying multiple-choice surveys to visitors. The analysis focuses on the sensorial and spatial characteristics of each building, and on the sensations perceived by visitors.