VII.   Water: a Phenomenal Lens

Water is a major character of experiencing thus we know it as “phenomenal lens” and its powers are:

A. Reflection

B. Spatial reversal

C. Refraction

D. Transformation of light rays

In autumn colors are more intense as they are reflected by the water or imagine sunlight refraction in crests of wavelets.

Description: Autumn 

Description: Sunlight Flickering of Water

Fukuoka 1989, Japan, as a case study for "Refraction":

"Four active north facing voids interlock with four quiet south facing voids to bring a sense of the sacred into domestic life. To ensure emptiness, the south voids are flooded with water, generating flickering reflections."  -Steven Holl

Watch Video Below: VOID SPACE/HINGED SPACE HOUSING by Steven Holl

This water shows immediate changes of wind by changing refraction of water and if rain pours down it’s an absolute evidence and clouds passing the water is their mirror and also for twilight. [it’s what modern urban life has immobilized poetry and weather forecasting ability in today’s life.]

Description: Feel the Situation

Characteristics of water as an opportunity in design to create sacred spaces are:

A: transformation of light through material

Description: Materials and Transformations (Refraction)

B: Mythic magical phenomena of refraction which is almost always created by water.

Description: Mythic Magical Phenomena of Refraction

-Farzam Kharvari

Please feel free to ask your questions in comments below or contact me through my profile and as always your suggestions are always welcomed ;)

References: Questions of Perception

Link to Steven Holl's project: http://www.stevenholl.com/projects/fukuoka-housing

The photos belong to Shutterstock, solar.physics.montana.edu, Bigshot Camera, Gizmodo, joemamerphoto.photoshelter.com, media.gettyimages.com, Graphic Design Junction

© 2017 Farzam Kharvari ALL RIGHTS RESERVED