Exploration of blind space identity through intangible architecture approach

Abstract

This dissertation discussed a research on intangible architecture approach that can be implement in enhancing blind architecture identity design in context of Jalan Raja Laut and Jalan Tengku Abdul Rahman, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Blind architecture identity in Malaysia has not fully explored and consider in development of urban context. Most of the building for blind and visual impaired was designed just to comply with the universal design standard and just focusing on tangible aspect of the design. This dissertation having the objectives to identify blind architecture identity as well as to understand the needs of the blind and their behavior in expressing the formation of the building design. Exploration of intangible architecture can be medium that can provide easiness for the blind and visual impaired person to understand the building and architecture. Sensory is part of the intangible architecture element that can be used in creating architecture that compliment with the needs of the blind and their behavior. Hence, a methodology of identifying the intangible architecture element that related to the needs of the blind and their behavior is carried out through literature review. To strengthen the finding, the case study review and observation study are done in order to identify the specific intangible architecture element that suitable with the context of the study area. The findings suggest that although intangible architecture approach is always being neglected in the design process but it play a major role in enhancing the blind architectural identity that can provide easiness for the blind community to experiences the building and architecture.