LOOKING AT WAYS CHOREOGRAPHIC TOOLS CAN AID IN DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
ARTICLE #10
Choreography in Architecture
Choreography creates a rhythm and an order in a sequence of movements that the body understands; design needs rhythm and order to create a space, in most instances successfully. When it comes to a sequence in a space that a human will take, it is determined by the layout. Thinking two-dimensionally, it is relatively simple to create a linear path to get from one space to another. When you consider how design flows, one dance move to another could be considered. If you utilize the sequence of dance movements to help us design, the human can move simply throughout it. It gives the user a distinct purpose in the space while also giving them the freedom to move smoothly, rather than hitting a wall (figuratively, of course).
When considering a program for a proposed space, each programmatic space is made for the human. The programmatic space is required to meet the person's needs in a given project, say a school, for example. The sequence follows the requirements of the program. The other brings up the term 'spatial choreography.' Utilizing spatial choreography takes the 'monotonous order' of sequences to create a dynamic environment. We can see how spatial choreography can be made successfully in space through dance. The author suggests considering Doris Humphrey's The Art of Making Dance.
Humphrey's book addresses the theory and knowledge of dance. She suggests the importance of symmetry and asymmetry to create a successful dance. Could this be important as well in the process of design? 'Reflecting upon Humphrey's theory of choreography, could choreography composition in the art of dance be applied to the composition of spatial choreography in architecture?' A question I have been asking myself. The author looks at how renovating spaces such as banks and churches could benefit from the theory and knowledge of dance. While this is the right idea, the goal is to consider its importance in the design and help the human body, not just renovations. This source gives an excellent path to another source.
The idea that the choreography of a physical movement of members can inform the design process is extremely intriguing. What do you aim to prove with such an inquiry? Perhaps that a lesson could be learned from the example set by dance choreography in the way that all members of a system must operate in coordination and harmony to create a successful composition.
I'm interested to see what your hypothesis becomes!
Emily,
I can tell that each week you are discovering new things and I love getting to learn more about your topic.
This week I enjoyed the point you made about how the sequence of choreography can also take notes from the sequence of a space/the relationship between choreography and sequential design. It seems there are many parallels in dance and design that I never considered before!
Hayden Wyrick