Atmospheric Affordances in Architecture: an Introduction to the Atmospherology of Tonino Griffero – МЕЖДУНАРОДНЫЙ ЖУРНАЛ ИССЛЕДОВАНИЙ КУЛЬТУРЫ

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Liubov Yu. IAKOVLEVA
National Research University ITMO
49, Kronverksky Pr., bldg. A, Saint-Petersburg, 197101, Russian Federation
Institute of International Development and Partnership
PhD in Philosophy
e-mail: jakovleva.ljubov@yandex.ru
ORCID: 0000-0002-2440-2923

Atmospheric Affordances in Architecture: an Introduction to the Atmospherology of Tonino Griffero

Abstract: This article explores the concept of atmospheric affordances within the framework of Italian philosopher Tonino Griffero’s project of atmospherology. The study aims to analyze and interpret this concept in the context of architectural philosophy. It situates the problem within a historical-philosophical framework by examining H. Schmitz’s neo-phenomenological ideas on atmosphere, space, and the lived body (Leib). The atmosphere is considered as an external force alongside the senses, rather than an internal human experience. Its spatial characteristics and distinction from mood are described, highlighting its ontological status as a quasi-thing, different from objects and qualities. The article emphasizes the relevance of architectural aesthetics and atmosphere, particularly the importance of G. Böhme’s notion of ecstasies for analyzing atmospheric affordances. It contrasts Griffero’s and J. Gibson’s approaches, stressing the pre-reflective level of environmental meaning apprehension and the direct interaction between perception and environmental influence. Unlike the ecological approach, atmospheric affordances are inherently linked to passivity, influencing perception by offering possibilities for stillness, contemplation, or emotional engagement. The analysis distinguishes between Griffero’s prototypical and derivatively-relational atmospheres. For instance, the spaciousness of a bank building suggests the autonomy of atmospheres, partially independent of both the architect’s intentions and the recipient’s expectations. Relational atmospheres emerge through interaction, with the same atmosphere offering different affordances depending on the perceiver. The article concludes by highlighting the significance of atmospheric affordances for understanding architectural space.

Key words: atmospheric affordances; architecture; space; body; quasi-things; ecstasies; gestures; ecology of perception; prototypical atmosphere; derivative-relational atmosphere.

References:

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For Citation:

Яковлева, Л. Ю. Атмосферные аффордансы в архитектуре: введение в атмосферологию Тонино Грифферо // Международный журнал исследований культуры. – 2024. – № 4 (57). – С. 32–50. DOI: 10.52173/2079-1100_2024_4_32

DOI: 10.52173/2079-1100_2024_4_32