Open Access

Caroline Günther

• Taking into account that architects have a pronounced influence on humans’ lives, it is theirTaking into account that architects have a pronounced influence on humans’ lives, it is their responsibility to design and build livable environments. For this, there is another crucial dimension that shapes the individual understanding of space in a way that has not yet been taken into account. This paper looks at living environments and their meaning for individual life and well-being. It introduces a theoretical background that sets its focus on buildings and exterior spaces and presents a different point of view. Here the theory of Emotional Spaces is introduced, referring to a connection between space and feelings and considering that it is not enough to plan buildings and open spaces merely with architectural qualities in mind. This paper presents a different understanding of space and proposes a new approach to the design process. It is based on a design concept that places people and all their needs in the center. In order to be able to design and plan architectural spaces according to the needs of human beings, it seems necessary to understand the individual, everyday life. The challenge is to understand the individual life story, which should then be put into a spatial context. From these insights, Emotional Spaces that are relevant for „good and successful” living can become visible.…