19659 - Psychology of Shapes

Learning outcomes

The course will focus on architectural psychology.

Course contents

Perception and perceptual segregation of space
Perception illusions
Space perception, perspective, 3D visual cues
Biophilia and the use of phitomorphic geometry in architecture
Fractal geometry and applications in architecture
Architectural aesthetic: cognitive and evolutionary perspectives
Emotional and cognitive associations of geometrical shapes. Use of these associations to convey specific emotional and cognitive states in architecture.
Color perception, color measure, color choice and use in architecture and design
Acoustical assessment in architecture. Techniques of noise reduction, noise cancellation. Noise stress and annoyance. Functional music in shops and stores. Soundscape.
Proxemics and interpersonal distances
The contribute of environmental psychology for the design of residential, educational, healthcare environment.
The contribute of environmental psychology for the design of green spaces.

Readings/Bibliography

Recommeded bibliography

Costa, M. (2013). Psicologia ambientale ed architettonica. Milano: FrancoAngeli Seconda Edizione

Hachen, M (2007). Scienza della visione. Spazio e Gestalt, design e comunicazione. Maggioli Editore

Booth, N. K. (2012). Foundations of landscape architecture: Integrate form and space using the language of site design. New York: Wiley

Teaching methods

The students will be actively involved in the course with drawings, watercolors, site analyses and the design of architectural spaces.

Assessment methods

TThe assessment will be mainly based on the examination of graphic works and notes taken during the course, along with several oral questions. A prerequisite for this format is that the student has completed the drawing and watercolor exercises that will be presented during the course lessons.
A score of 30 cum laude will be awarded for excellent technical and content quality of the graphic works, excellent critical analysis and connective skills, and confident mastery of specific terminology.
A score of 30 will be awarded for very good technical and content quality of the graphic works (if required), high critical analysis and connective skills, and confident mastery of specific terminology.
A score of 27-29 will be awarded for good technical and content quality of the graphic works, good analytical skills, and confident mastery of specific terminology.
A score of 23-26 will be awarded for fair technical and content quality of the graphic works, fair analytical and in-depth skills, and fair mastery of specific terminology.
A score of 19-22 will be awarded for more than sufficient technical and content quality of the graphic works, more than sufficient analytical and in-depth skills, and more than sufficient mastery of specific terminology.
A score of 18 will be awarded for sufficient technical and content quality of the graphic works, sufficient analytical and in-depth skills, and sufficient mastery of specific terminology.
The use of AI tools during the exam is prohibited in any form, including chatbots, text generators, advanced translators, content synthesizers, and tools integrated into devices. Any use of AI is considered a violation of the principle of honesty and fairness set out in the Policy and may result in the exam being invalidated by the instructor, who remains responsible for verifying the validity of the exam.
Students with SLD (specific learning disabilities) or temporary or permanent disabilities: it is recommended to contact the University office for SLD. 

Teaching tools

- Drawing tools: pencils, india-ink pens, set-squares, compass.

- Drawing paper (200g/m2) book for notes, drawings, skectches;

- A4 watercolor paper 300g/m2;

- Watercolor set (it is enough a basic set with 12 half-pans);

- Watercolor brushes;

- Palette or white ceramic dish;

- India ink;

- Cup for water.

Office hours

See the website of Marco Costa