116
It is possible to distinguish two types of field character; ef-
fective between masses in one case is a kind of ‘gravitation’
(> force field) (1), while decisively in the other is primarily the
position of the figures on a ‘playing field’ (2).- ‘A field theory of architectural space’ describes the ef-
fects of perceptual forces between architectural forms. Rudolf
Arnheim (1977/2009, 16ff.) uses the term ‘field’ for architec-
ture here in a way that is analogous to other field theories.
According to him, a field is not merely a planar territory;
arising from it are potentials, forces and field qualities. In ar-
chitectural perception, forces of attraction and repulsion be-
tween architectural bodies or states of pressure and tension
between the walls of a room are perceived as a field of en-
ergy gradients. This play of forces, as an essential component
of perception, permeates the field where forms, architectural
bodies and spaces are interrelated. We can imagine the rela-
tionship between them as a dynamic structure within which
each individual element occupies a specific position by virtue
of its form, dimensions and alignment, and confronts other
elements with its own mass. Dominance, connectedness, con-
frontation, and the drive towards expansion are perceptual
forces that are effective between architectural elements within
a field. Within this force field, each element influences the oth-
ers, and in particular the spatial relationships between them.
On this field, we are corporeal figures that likewise par-
ticipate with our bodies in the play of forces. Large architec-
tural masses exercise a kind of gravitational force on other
masses, and on our bodies as well. Existing between building
fronts that face one another are fields of tension to which we
are exposed when we occupy the intermediate space. Con-
vex forms are surrounded by concentric force fields through
which they press towards us. Concave forms take us into
their embrace. Also active as players, so to speak, on this field
alongside human protagonists, are buildings. If a building is
removed or a new one added, all of the existing relationships
may be displaced as though on a chessboard when a pawn is
Field