BAHIRDAR UNIVERSITY

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE
THEORYOF ARCHITECTURE II
Essay writing

SUBMITTED TO.AMANUEL.
SUBMITTED BY.FASIL MAMO
ID:1103483

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INTRODUCTION

Christopher Day's "Places of the Soul" is a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship

between architecture and the human experience. Day argues that architecture should be designed
with the human soul in mind, creating spaces that nourish and support our emotional and
spiritual needs.
Christopher Day's "Places of the Soul" is a relevant piece of writing that explores how
architecture can intentionally shape human experience within a building or a community. He
highlights the importance of designing for the senses - sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell- to
enhance human interaction with our surrounding environment. According to Day, it is possible to
create buildings that nourish the soul by encouraging occupants to engage with their senses,
connect to nature, and promote physical and emotional well-being.
One of the key ideas in Day's writing is the importance of using local materials and architectural
styles to create a sense of place and connection to the surrounding environment. This idea is
exemplified in many local architectural works, such as the traditional wooden houses found in
rural areas or the modernist buildings that reflect the urban landscape.
When architects use local materials and architectural styles, they are able to create buildings that
are not only aesthetically pleasing but also rooted in the local culture and history. This can help
to create a sense of belonging and identity for the people who inhabit these spaces. For example,
traditional wooden houses found in rural areas are often built using locally sourced timber and
designed to withstand the local climate and weather conditions. These houses are not only
functional but also reflect the local culture and history, creating a sense of place and connection
to the surrounding environment.
Throughout the book, Day uses examples of local architectural works to illustrate his ideas. He
highlights the importance of traditional architecture and how it can be used to create a sense of
place and connection to the surrounding environment. He also explores modernist architecture
and how it can be designed to reflect the urban landscape while still promoting well-being and
sustainability.
Similarly, modernist buildings that reflect the urban landscape can also be designed using local
materials and architectural styles. For example, buildings in cities like New York or London
often incorporate elements of the surrounding architecture, such as the use of brick or stone
facades. This helps to create a sense of continuity and connection between the new building and
the existing urban fabric.
By using local materials and architectural styles, architects can create buildings that are not only
aesthetically pleasing but also rooted in the local culture and history. This can help to create a
sense of belonging and identity for the people who inhabit these spaces.
Furthermore, Day emphasizes the importance of creating buildings that are in harmony with the
natural environment. This can be seen in many local architectural works, such as the use of

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passive solar design to maximize natural light and heat in colder climates or the incorporation of
green roofs and rainwater harvesting systems to promote sustainability.
For example, in Singapore, the Parkroyal on Pickering hotel features a series of terraced gardens
and green spaces that help to reduce the building's carbon footprint and provide a natural oasis in
the heart of the city.
In the context of local architectural works and how they reflect our understanding, Day's writing
reinforces the significance of considering local cultural, social, and environmental contexts when
building structures. By designing with an awareness of history, customs, and ecological patterns,
architects can create buildings that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and
sustainable. For example, an architect designing a modern structure in a rural community should
consider how the building can utilize locally available materials, harness renewable energy
sources, and blend harmoniously with natural surroundings. Such consideration enhances the
building's usefulness to the locals and minimizes negative environmental impacts.
writing on "Places of the Soul" highlights the importance of designing buildings that are not just
functional but also emotionally and spiritually fulfilling. By using local materials and
architectural styles and creating buildings that are in harmony with the natural environment,
architects can create spaces that truly nourish the human soul.
Day's "Places of the Soul" emphasizes that architecture should be more than just aesthetically
beautiful. It should embrace a holistic approach that incorporates environmental, social, cultural,
and economic considerations. When local architectural works follow these principles, they
become reflections of the values and needs of the community they serve.
In conclusion, Christopher Day's "Places of the Soul" highlights the significance of designing
architecture that promotes emotional, spiritual and physical well-being. By incorporating local
materials and architectural styles and creating buildings in harmony with nature, architects can
create spaces that nourish the human soul while reflecting the values of the communities they
serve. These principles promote sustainability, functionality, and inclusivity while creating a
sense of identity and place for occupants.