Spatial, material, and symbolic aspects of architecture are important considerations when examining how they affect experiences of gender, identity, and inclusion. Spatial elements refer to the physical layout of an architectural space, including its size, shape, orientation, and arrangement of furniture, walls, doors, windows, and other features.
If a room is square instead of rectangular, it may convey feelings of confinement for some people but spaciousness for others. If a door is narrow, it may feel claustrophobic, while a wide one can create a sense of expansiveness. Material elements include the building materials used in construction, such as wood, stone, metal, glass, concrete, plastic, and fabric. Symbolic elements involve the meaning that people attach to different architectural elements based on their cultural background, personal beliefs, and past experiences. They can be related to religious or spiritual practices, political ideologies, historical events, social norms, or individual preferences.
Gendered spaces are those designed specifically for men or women, such as bathrooms, locker rooms, offices, and meeting rooms. These spaces often have different levels of privacy, accessibility, safety, comfort, and amenities based on their intended users. Some examples include gender-neutral restrooms, which allow anyone to use any facility regardless of gender; private offices with separate entrances and exits for male and female employees; and family restrooms, where parents can accompany children of either sex. Inclusive spaces are those accessible to all individuals regardless of age, ability, culture, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or any other factor. This includes accessible parking spaces, ramps, elevators, and wheelchair lifts; multi-cultural libraries with books from various languages and countries; and LGBTQ+ affirming areas with gender-neutral bathrooms and inclusive language.
The relationship between architecture and identity has been explored by many scholars. One theory suggests that physical environments influence psychological well-being and behavior through cognitive processes like perception, memory, attention, and emotion regulation.
Studies show that natural light improves mood, productivity, and creativity in office workers. Another theory proposes that architectural design can promote feelings of belongingness, security, trustworthiness, and support among people who share similar identities or experiences. The most famous example is the "sense of place" concept, which argues that buildings can convey a sense of community, history, tradition, cultural heritage, or environmental awareness through unique features like local materials, colors, textures, and shapes.
Spatial, material, and symbolic aspects of architecture mediate experiences of gender, identity, and inclusion because they shape how we interact with our surroundings, express ourselves, and connect with others. They can be designed intentionally to create inclusive, comfortable, and safe spaces for everyone, regardless of their differences.
More research is needed on how these elements impact specific groups of people, such as women, minorities, elderly individuals, persons with disabilities, and those with nontraditional identities.
How do spatial, material, and symbolic aspects of architecture mediate experiences of gender, identity, and inclusion?
The built environment can shape how individuals experience their identities and sense of belonging within society. Architecture is not just about physical structures but also encompasses spatial, material, and symbolic components that interact with one another to create meaningful experiences for those who encounter it. The design of buildings and spaces has a profound impact on our perceptions of gender roles, social norms, and cultural values.