Tunxis New Media

Architectural Narrative

On a handy writing surface, draw a map of the interior of an architectural interior, describing the layout of the space from the crow’s view (top down). Do some prep work first, though. Complete a walkthrough of the space. Observe details and make notes. Try to note as many features of the space as you can, including entrances (access points), exits, rooms and their features, passages, and halls. Think about orientation, too: the positions from which you can observe and move through the space.

Using your map and your notes, identify in a concise essay how the structure of the space directs peoples’ movement or “flow” through it. Consider these as narratives of movement made possible by a “designer.” Any insights? Possible problems? Are there any aspects of new media principles at play in the space, including degrees of interactivity, modularity, and variability. Consider also how elements of the readerly/writerly text are at play in the space.

Additional notes. We’re trying to draw comparisons between different kinds of media environments, from web sites, games, and films. One way of doing this is to identify and differentiate objects or things. An interior space can also be viewed in terms of a media environment if a media environment provokes narrative “flow.” So, as you work, think about how a structure’s interior space is analogous to the space of a web site, such as a home page and front door, a page and room. Starbucks’ website is a good example of a digital space that is designed to encourage specific kinds of “flow.”

Goal: to familiarize you with the idea of flow, narrative, and spatial analysis, as well as how readers and writers change roles under certain circumstances.

Things not to do: Avoid simple-featured spaces, such as small rooms, apartments, and small shops. These will not provide you with enough breadth to work with.

Assessed Abilities: Course Ability 1, 2 and Gen Eds 2.2.1