A Phenomenological Dialogue Between Nature and Humanity: Traces of Local Knowledge in Marco Casagrande's Architecture

Abstract

Architectural phenomenology focuses on the perceptual-sensory and bodily experiences of humans, examining the human-space relationship and the concept of 'place.' 'Place' is not merely a physical setting but a lived experience shaped by human interaction with the environment. This study investigates the relationship between nature and humanity phenomenologically and analyzing Marco Casagrande's Bug Dome, Cicada, and Sandworm projects to explore the concept of 'place' and the role of local knowledge. Casagrande integrates local knowledge, materials, techniques, and community participation for an architecture that evolves with nature and society. The related projects are not only aesthetic and functional structures but also experiential tools that transcend stylistic boundaries and present a design philosophy that deepens the meaningful relationship between nature and humanity. 'Place-making' serves as a critique of urbanization disconnected from nature and as a participatory process and transformative mechanism that strengthens the human-nature relationship.