A Study On Steven Holl's Ideology About Architectural Phenomenology And His Works

Steven Holl, famous contemporary American architect, is a representative of applying phenomenology successfully to architectural theory and practice. By accenting the relationship between architecture and the site, and stressing the perception and experience in architecture, he realizes truly humane and living architecture. In his concept of place, he grasps the phenomenological relationship of architecture and the site through perceiving and experiencing, and tries to express, stress, adjust and confine the experiencing of the site; in his designs, he places emphasis on implementing of the phenomenological statement of interrelating of space, material, light and shadow, reveals deep comprehension and concern for human living conditions and also shows the ability to grasp the essential apprehension of interrelation of human, architecture, the site and their perception. To study his phenomenological works, especially his phenomenological theory, will inspire Chinese architects who face present-day challenges and will encourage reconsideration and improving of architectural education and practice.This thesis includes six chapters in three parts: the first part ( Chapter One ) presents how the topic was chosen, the purpose and significance, the existing situation of the topic and method of study, and the framework of this thesis. The second part ( Chapter Two to Chapter Four ) discusses the primary theoretical background of his architectural concept , professional experience, phenomenological theory and its embodiment in designs. Chapter Two discusses the primary theoretical background of Moll's architectural concept. Then Chapter Three relates hi phenomenological theory from three aspects-- phenomenaand concepts, enmeshed experience, and limited concept, also tracing here his professional experiences. Finally Chapter Four discusses the embodiment of the concept of place and of the perception of architecture. The third part concludes the significance of Holl's phenomenological theory and summarizes the effects of the inspiration and referential value of his thoughts and practice on architectural education and practice in China.