ABSTRACT
In narrative environments, the physical, tangible frame that literally surrounds a space is a primary vehicle through which the more intangible cultural, social and political frames are enacted. This chapter argues that for the design of narrative environments, the value of attending to framing as a topic is that it provides a method for realising poetic, critical and speculative narrative environments which result from a play of multiple contextualisations, experienced as co-existent centres for deixis or orientation to the world and to others. The huge space of Granary Square is framed by Regents Canal on the south side with a backdrop of new buildings beyond. Framing and reframing in urban development are mirrored in other sectors. Narrative frames differ from frame stories. Narrative frames provide the perspective on a topic whereas frame stories are overall story arc within which other stories unfold.