QUALITY OF LIFE: MEDITATIONS ON PEOPLE AND ARCHITECTURE

摘要

This paper correlates the definition of architectural spaces to the concept of quality of life. The concept of quality of life covers domains such as the psychological, physiological, interpersonal, spiritual, and financial. Quality of life is dynamic; people and the environment change over time. The 1949 definition of health provided by the World Health Organization (WHO) is a useful blueprint for defining health measures to inform architectural design. Two questions are discussed: Are cultural associations relevant in defining building environmental performances? Can the Vitruvian connection of architecture-climate-comfort and the Palladian theory of architecture still inform modern architecture? The historical domains of durability, convenience and beauty continue to be a valid model because they are meant to be a reflection of the quality of life of individuals at a given time. This paper promotes architectural education that bases its philosophical approach on the historical concept of commoditaslutilitas (convinience) as way to enhance quality of life.