Twelfth International Conference on The Constructed Environment

Abstract

Concepts of sense of place, tangible, emotional, sense of belonging and nostalgic are explored. Although sense of place can be defined in many ways, the most literal interpretation would be a physical aspect of our environment to be instantly perceived. This would represent the tangible aspect of the concept, but one must also consider the emotional aspect of the term, referred to by some as topophilia or love of place. When one associates positive experiences with a place, particularly during a defining period of their life, the place itself becomes significant or even sacred. When good design combines the tangible perception of place, the emotional impact of positive experiences, and the nostalgia that grows over time, the design will, potentially, reach across generations. If successfully designed the tangible will help to create a sense of belonging. Meanwhile the emotional impact of the place creates a desire to stay connected.