Spatial Intelligence: New Futures for Architecture

Spatial intelligence is one of man s most underrated human capabilities. The result of millions of years of evolution, it enables us to navigate our way through our daily lives. It is less consciously applied than linguistic, mathematical, kinetic, natural, musical or personal intelligence. Despite architecture s dependence on spatial knowledge and experience, the discipline remains bereft of a theoretical underpinning. Understanding and knowledge of space is only pursued through precedent and challenged with experience, but the role of every individual s history in space, the unfolding and developing of their spatial intelligence is largely unaccounted for. This book argues for a greater continuum between our spatial intelligence and the built environment, and thus a greater connection between architecture and everyday life.

Providing an overview of spatial intelligence as a human capability, the book also acknowledges how widespread recognition of it in architectural education and the profession should enable the demystification of the practice of design, forming the basis of a more democratic interface between society and practice. Ultimately, suggesting how spatial intelligence might provide exciting new opportunities for practice in the linking of real and virtual environments in the information age.

Introduction 008

Chapter One: The mechanics of spatial intelligence 022

Chapter Two: How spatial intelligence builds our mental space 036

Chapter Three: The disruption of the unity of time, place and architecture, and some precursors of reunification 057

Chapter Four: Intuitives: confronting spatial intelligence tracing the use of spatial intelligence 082

Chapter Five: Pioneers of mental space tracing the use of spatial intelligence 140

Chapter Six: New futures for architects: new roles for practitioners 164

Chapter Seven: New professionalism new practice manifesto 182

Index 201

Leon van Schaik is Professor of Architecture (Innovation Chair) at RMIT, Melbourne, Australia. From his base in Melbourne, he has promoted local and international architectural culture through practice–based research. In 2006 he was awarded an Order of Australia, Officer (AO) in the General Division, for service to architecture as an academic, practitioner and educator, and to the community through involvement with a wide range of boards and organisations related to architecture, culture and the arts. He is the author of Mastering Architecture: Becoming a Creative Innovator in Practice (John Wiley & Sons, 2005), and Design City Melbourne, (John Wiley & Sons, 2006).