The Relationship Between The Interior And Exterior

The inner space of a structure and the exterior façade of the same structure are two completely different entities co existing with each both, having a inter relation collaboration of sorts. Like many other things in the universe, these two also go hand in hand. In architecture, you would come across phases like establishment of relationship between the interior of the space and the exterior. However, the question that arises is how is it possible? How does one accomplish something so vague and illusionary? And most importantly, why would you want to do it? A building, a space, a structure is more than just an architectural edifice. It is basically an interplay of Pallasma’s famous Six Themes for the Millennium namely plasticity, sensuousness, identity, authenticity, silence, and so on. This is established by creating a dialogue between the exterior and the interior of the space. For example, if we look at The Glass House by Philip Johnson, we would realize that we are looking at a prime example of such a statement. Made completely out of glass, the structure stands proudly in the middle of green acreage. When you are standing within the building, you would not feel alienated with the outer area.

It would feel as if it is part of the inner sanctum of the house. Although the boundaries are made completely out of glass and they are acting as a physical barrier but in actuality they are not acting as a visual barrier. Hence your eye sight fails to register that division or partition between the interior ad the exterior, not actually establishing where the house ends and the natural environment starts. This in turn establishes that dialogue between the interior an exterior of the space.

Basically it is achieved by creating a relationship between spaces as well. As in when you enter an architectural space, there should be transitioning phases in between. There shouldn’t be any abrupt entrances or exits into respective spaces. You should experience that change in scenery, ambience, atmosphere, air, aura and etc. Apart from your sight, your other senses should experience that change and your body should conform to it. This is done in order to avoid making the user from becoming cautious of his surrounding, of the space For laymen and on a bit literal level, you can go about accomplishing this by the method of fenestration. Fenestration is a term referred to the voids, openings and windows in the building which allows you the natural light within and you are always in contact with the outer view. Hence wit you maintaining that contact with the exterior of the space, you actually carry the outer space into the building with yourself. When inside a building, you should not feel detached from the outside; you should be able to carry both if them together. If that happens the architecturally, the building is a success and you have established that relationship between the interior and the exterior.