ABSTRACT
This chapter brings forward the potential of filmmaking as an integrative mode of inquiry and form of representation in the emerging field of architectural anthropology by conceptually interrogating and empirically illustrating three key elements of such practice – storytelling, emotions and identification. Three documentary films produced by urban planning master students in a course set up around architectural anthropological thinking will serve as empirical examples. We argue that constitutive to architectural anthropology is enabling social transformative change in and through architectural practices (e.g. practices that accommodate from the bottom-up spatial responses which make a positive difference to people in their everyday life). Such a position implies that architects and other ‘spatial agents’ have to pay attention to if new design constitutes the appropriate architectural response, and if so, what would make spatial difference in a novel way when (re)designing new buildings. The chapter brings forward that the methodological strengths of film-making sits in its ability to tell complex and spatially interwoven stories that emotionally engage the audience –which we argue is necessary for pursuing such an architecture.
