Light as Resonance:

Abstract: What is the resonance light has in our emotional and spatial perception? This explorative research investigates the phenomenological relationship between light and architectural spaces, specifically examining the emotional impact of lighting within the framework of "Emotional Architecture." This concept, introduced by German artist Mathias Goeritz in his 1953 architectural manifesto in Mexico, aspires to connect art with emotional and spiritual dimensions through architectural experiences. Emotional Architecture emphasizes the importance of perception and sensory experience, advocating for environments that evoke emotions and resonate with individuals as they navigate their daily lives.

Situated in the studio and residence of renowned Mexican architect Luis Barragán (1948), the presented paper seeks to elucidate how architectural elements—such as form, materials, colours, and spatial arrangements—affect lighting conditions and, in turn, shape human emotions and experiences. Utilizing a mixed-method approach, the research integrates experiential observation, structured interviews, scale models, full-scale mock-ups, workshops, academic exercises, focus group and in particular in form of a pilot study and paper, the analysis of iconic works by Barragán and Goeritz, supported by qualitative and quantitative documentation.

By incorporating the concepts of atmosphere and affordance from theorists Gernot Böhme and James J. Gibson, this research bridges the gap between lighting and architecture through an emotional and experiential lens. This innovative approach aims to reshape the understanding of light within architectural design, offering new insights into how lighting influences emotional well-being in the built environment.

Opponent: Chero Eliassi

Supervisors:

Main-supervisor: Meike Schalk

Co-supervisor: Ute Besenecker

Bio: Rodrigo Muro is an architect, lighting designer, and educator based in Stockholm, with over 25 years of experience in practice and education across Sweden, Spain, and Mexico. He holds master's degrees in architectural lighting design from KTH and industrial design from UPC Barcelona. Since 2011, he has been a lecturer and tutor at KTH’s Lighting Design division, currently serving as the program director for the Master of Architectural Lighting Design. Coordinitator of the Architecture and Daylight Studio at KTH, he is involved in various educational, lighting and research projects, including his ongoing PhD on the role of lighting in Emotional Architecture, exploring the phenomenology of light and its emotional impact on humans.