Intent is “something that is intended; an aim or purpose.” [1] In an architectural context, intent can refer to a multitude of things. For example, the design intent of an architect is depicted in their drawings, ideas and writings. Drawings capture the intentions of an architect well because they become more than just “tools of instruction”. Architectural historian, Alberto Pérez-Gómez, writes, "In a manner of speaking... the drawing is the architecture, a priviledged [sic] vehicle for expressing architectural intentions: intentions that are poetic in a profound traditional sense, as poesis, as symbol making."[2] This is supported by german philosopher, Walter Benjamin who “sees the drawing as more than just tools of instruction, but as a space for imagined experience.”[3] These two aforementioned statements acknowledge that drawings not only intend to show the specifications and form of the building but also the reasoning and meaning behind their creation. It is through the drawing where one language can be translated to another; hence, ensuring the idea of the building is kept uniform through communication. The intent of the architect can be communicated effectively and clearly due to the universal language expressed in his/her drawings.
However, the intent behind drawings is better understood to those within the discipline of architecture because they have been taught the language. But what about those outside of architecture? With little or no knowledge of architectural drawings, the intent of the architect is difficult to discover for these people. Personal writings to explain the architects design in the drawings may be effective in helping to communicating the intent but the true intent may never be realised by these people because of their variant background of knowledge. Therefore, drawings, ideas and writings are definitely effective mediums for communicating the intent of the architect but it will always be interpreted differently by others.
To intend something in terms of communication is to persuade and induce a point. An individual has an idea and/or information which they aim to communicate to an audience. For example, as architecture students, we perform presentations for our design projects to other students and tutors; hence, we display intent to inform the audience with information about our projects. Presentation of intent runs parallel to its interpretation. It is presented differently as it is perceived. Ones perception on the intent of another is always going to be different and unique. The way in which intent is communicated affects how others interpret it. Body language plays a major role in the way intent is communicated. This non-verbal communication can be divided into three main categories. These include; haptic, kinesic and proxemic communication.
Haptic communication is communicating by touch.[4] It is often an intimate way of communicating domination or friendship and can be used in numerous contexts. Touch can be used to gain attention. A simple pat on the back of your friend will draw their attention to you to begin conversation. In a professional context, a handshake between architect and client signifies a greeting and intent for discussion. On the other hand, touch can also be used aggressively as a form of punishment. The way in which we communicate through touch is varies with purpose and setting.
Kinesic communication is communicating through body movement and is the most common form of non-verbal communication. It can be divided into three main elements. The first being body posture which refers to how one holds their body. If a person is performing a presentation to the class, there intent should be focus the attention of the audience onto them. Therefore, he/she should have a more open body posture to attract attention and induce domination over the audience as opposed to a closed body posture causing him/her to appear insignificant. Secondly, gestures are another form of kinesic communication which refers to the movement of the body and arms. A specific type of gesture called, “emblems” are actions that substitute for words. For example, using your middle and index finger to create a “V” shape indicates “peace”. Lastly, facial signals are another powerful form of kinesic communication. When communicating with others, the main focus is placed on the faces of those who speak and listen. Maintaining eye contact is a sign of reverence to the speaker and is important in focusing attention. Therefore, how we control and present our body communicates our intent and has an adverse affect on how it is interpreted by others.
Proxemic communication is communicating based on the positioning between bodies. Where we communicate with others ultimately affects how intent is understood. For example, a formal presentation of a design project to the class and lectures is more suited in a classroom or lecture room as opposed to a bar or restaurant. The subject and privacy of information being transmitted determines the appropriate setting for its communication. There are multitudes of ways in which body language can be expressed and interpreted. It is always important to understand the context behind the information being communicated to ensure the effectiveness of its delivery.
References
1. http://www.thefreedictionary.com/intent Accessed: April 28, 2008.
2. http://www.activesocialplastic.com/2007/08/architectural_drawing_as_steal.html Accessed: April 28, 2008.
3. http://www.activesocialplastic.com/2007/08/architectural_drawing_as_steal.html Accessed: April 28, 2008.
4. http://changingminds.org/explanations/behaviors/body_language/haptic_touch.htm Accessed: April 29, 2008.
http://changingminds.org/explanations/behaviors/body_language/proxemics.htm Accessed: April 29, 2008.
http://changingminds.org/explanations/behaviors/body_language/kinesic.htm Accessed: April 29, 2008.
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