Haunting space - the role of the body in design interaction.
Michael Smyth · Edinburgh Napier Research Repository (Edinburgh Napier University) · 2002
This paper will investigate the contention that the body and in particular the sense of touch, plays a central role during interaction associated with design. The approach will be grounded in the philosophical tradition of phenomenology, particularly the role of the body and how it impacts on the process of design. The theme of engagement provided by the haptic qualities of physical models will be illustrated by a prototype design concept based on shape grammars. Through the incorporation of an explicit linkage of touch and interaction, it is contended that such tools to support design might begin the process of reconnecting the body and the senses to the eye and produce design solutions that are more grounded in humanity.