Space as Receptor, Instrument or Stage: Notes on the Interaction Between Spatial and Social Constellations

Abstract

Acknowledging the need for a shared scholarly paradigm capable of explaining the interaction between spatial and social constellations, this paper presents a model which identifies three important ways to conceptualize this interaction: space seen as receptor, as instrument or as stage. The paper reviews the relevant literature from architectural history and theory, positioning it within a broader framework that also addresses material from anthropology, sociology and cultural geography. It points to similarities and parallels, but also to divergent sensibilities and contrasting understandings, which together make up a rich matrix of theoretical positions.