This document provides a summary of a reaction paper analyzing the reader "A Geometry of Feeling" by Juhani Pallasmaa. The paper discusses three main points: 1) Pallasmaa argues that architecture is losing its true meaning as an artistic expression and should consider how buildings are experienced by people. 2) Architecture's form alone does not define it - its true impact comes from the experiences and feelings it provokes in people. 3) Religious buildings like the Church of Light designed by Tadao Ando use simplicity and natural light to create a sense of peace and inspire deeper connection with its religious meanings.

1. BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (HONOURS) IN ARCHITECTURE
THEORIES OF ARCHITECTURE AND URBANISM (ARC61303/ARC2224)
SYNOPSIS: REACTION PAPER (MARCH 2017)
Name: Kan Sook San ID No.: 0319326
Lecturer: Mr. Prince Favis Isip Tutorial Time: 12.45pm -1.15pm
Reader/Text Title: A Geometry of
Feeling
Synopsis No: 4
Author: Juhani Pallasmaa
Word Count: 324 Mark: Grade:
Assessed by: Date: 7th
June 2017 Page No.: 2
Architecture is losing its true meaning in the freedom of artistic expression as it becoming a specialist profession.
Other than mere play with form, architect should consider how the building is experienced. The author, Pallasmaa
keeps questioning the reader to raise their conscious about the feeling and emotion toward a person from the
building are missing.
Pallasmaa’s main point in the reader is to consider the relationship between architectural form and how
architecture is experienced. In the artistic perception, the work of art is not depending on the physical appearance
but the impact and experience given to the person. Despite the initiative and diversity of form, architecture without
understanding of art will not trigger the memory that does not resonate with the viewer, it will be left with
meaningless ornamentations. It is essential to experience the architectural meaning and influence the viewer’s
perception.
It is evident from the reader that the primary feeling produced by architecture is the direct expression of its
intention. The impression of the building generates a person’s feeling and emotion. For instance, the Church of
Light by Tadao Ando which is a religious institution, the simplicity of the façade projects an image of purity when
approaching it. Access into the church, the thin cross opening shines into the space and the natural light dominates
the space of simplicity. The cross sign calms the mind with a sense of peacefulness and isolation. Being isolated
from the outside, the connection between the prayer and the religion is stronger. Considering “Experiencing art is a
private dialogue between the work and the person experiencing it which excludes all other interaction.” in the
reader, architecture with soulful thought awakes the imagination and provoke inspiration in daily life.
From understanding the text, architecture nowadays should be reviewed to enhance the quality of the
surroundings towards the people. Furthermore, integration of poetic quality and the functionality are much needed
in architecture to convey its intention and message.