Technarrative Model (NTM) for the Symbolic-Emotional Evaluation of Architectural Space: A Neutrosophic Multiperspectivism Approach

Abstract

This research answers the need to evaluate an architectural space from a non-technical standpoint relative to its symbolism/emotion charge that is not taken into account by the design/planning of such public spaces. This research problem is sociologically relevant as today; architecture does not only dictate the layout of the physical world but also the group existence, sensitivity to experiences and modes of social appropriation. Yet the state-of- the-art literature provides purely professional and empirical avenues of investigation driven by economic/aesthetic value with no pathway for understanding appreciation of ambiguity and the multiple perspectives at play. Thus, a Neutrosophic Technarrative Model (NTM) is proposed which stems from neutrosophic multiperspectivism method that deems the integration of contradictory evaluations, via triads ⟨ T, I, F ⟩ and OWA aggregation operators, valid. The need for tension to be quantified, polarization to be acknowledged and uncertainty/haze to be evaluated creates a fair, symbolic-emotional assessment of an architectural space. Ultimately, findings show that community members, builders, preservationists, and tourists show support for their symbolic/emotional contributions to the space resulting in mixed compilations of somewhat conflicting results that can easily be articulated. Theoretically, this manuscript contributes to literature by providing for a formalized rubric for symbolic assessment and practically, the findings support an effective means for more sustainable, empathetic and inclusive architectural projects in the future.