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Framework for metaphor-based spatial configuration design: a case study of Japanese rock gardens

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  31 October 2019

Yuval Kahlon*
Affiliation:
Department of Architecture, Tokyo Institute of Technology, School of Environment and Society, Fujii Lab, Meguro Ku, Ookayama 2 Chome-12-1, Tokyo, Japan
Haruyuki Fujii
Affiliation:
Department of Architecture, Tokyo Institute of Technology, School of Environment and Society, Fujii Lab, Meguro Ku, Ookayama 2 Chome-12-1, Tokyo, Japan
*
Author for correspondence: Yuval Kahlon, E-mail: kahlon.y.aa@m.titech.ac.jp

Abstract

Metaphors are powerful tools for design, enabling designers to encapsulate sets of properties and relations as short verbal descriptions. This paper aims to clarify how simple spatial configurations may emerge from concise metaphoric descriptions at the conceptual design phase. To this aim, we propose a framework for a metaphor-based design process. As a basis for the framework, we introduce the concept of “complementary visual potential” – a property which ties the spatial configuration of the objects in the composition with their metaphoric roles. The framework is developed by studying the practice of metaphor-based spatial configuration design in Japanese rock gardens. Accordingly, it is implemented and tested in this context by attempting to generate alternative designs for an existing rock composition in the famous garden of Ryōan-ji. This is followed by a discussion of its possible implications and potential for generalization to other areas of design.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2019

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