Charles Jencks' 1969 theory of Semiology and Architecture addressed different perspectives in design. The theory proposed the Semiology Triangle to analyze how people see and interpret buildings. It also suggested that ambiguity in design can create a multivalent experience where meanings are found on different levels. As an example, a vibrant, edgy building intended to represent youth could be interpreted as too colorful or "childish" looking depending on the perspective.

1. 20 APRIL 2015
Synopsis No 4
Name:
1. Jevon Atmabrata
2. Poh Zi Yang
3.Jannah Jailani
4.Chen Rou Ann
Text: Semiology and Architecture
Author: Charles Jencks
Year Written: 1969
Purpose of the theory (Please tick X; you may tick more than one box)
/ Identifying an issue or problem within the contemporary context
/ Analyzing an architecture to identify a problem or solve a problem
Solving an issue in a broader context outside of architecture: presenting a theory/manifesto
Solving an issue within the context of architecture: presenting a design method
/ Solving an issue within the context of architecture: presenting a theory
Others:
Please complete the following:
What are the issues
addressed?
There are different perspectives to be interpreted in every different
design. Two different group will have different groups of
perspectives and views.
What are the design
methods/strategy/theories
proposed?
• Semiology Triangle
• ‘ In architecture, one sees the building, interprets it, and puts
into words.’
• “ When one sees an architecture which has been created
with equal concern for form, function and technic, this
ambiguity creates a multivalent experience where one
oscillates from meaning to meaning always finding further
justification and depth ”
Relate the text to
architectural/urban forms
by illustrating one key
image.
Justify the selection.
What the architect had intended with the design was for it to be
vibrant, edgy and iconic to represent the youth, it could be
interpreted as too colour blocking, and almost ‘childish’ looking.