Architectural Sensibilities: Observations on Perspective Space and Elastic Space

This paper initiates a formal and thematic examination of architectural sensibilities at work in mid-twentieth century and contemporary architecture. There are two propositions underlying the paper. The first, methodological proposition is that the different qualities and effects of perspective space versus elastic space as formulated by Giulio Carlo Argan offer a productive lens to the analysis. A second proposition is that certain works of architecture express institution characteristics and in turn underlyling specific architectural temperaments. In order to test these propositions’ operational and heuristic potential, the paper undertakes an overview examination of Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners’ Bordeaux Law Courts (1992-1998) and Le Corbusier’s Palace of Justice Chandigarh (1951-1957). Compositional, figural, and formal conditions and organisational strategies are considered. The paper contributes to basic and applied research into architectural space concepts, adds to scholarship on the practice and history of architectural composition, and makes a modest contribution to secondary work on the two case study projects.