Global proxemics

The influence of Edward T. Hall in cultural spaces

Abstract

The research article focuses on studying how the proxemic principles established by Edward T. Hall influence the design of exhibition and cultural dissemination spaces. A descriptive, qualitative, and non-experimental methodological approach was chosen; it was based on a scientific documentary review that included indexed journals, articles, specialized books, and research papers. From this review and investigative tools, three dimensions of study for the variable were determined; this allows for the identification of twelve criteria related to compositional characteristics, spatiality, architectural details, and materiality, which became design guidelines. Subsequently, a study of 5 global case samples was conducted to empirically validate these architectural criteria. The results showed that the application of space compression and expansion through different heights and ceiling levels is present in 100% of the case studies. The use of ramps and stairs as vertical circulation focused on design that encourages public participation and contributes to the cultural experience in the space was found in 80% of the cases. In 60% of the cases, the use of orthogonal and non-orthogonal Euclidean volumes applying blending and differentiating heights in their composition, generating identity in the context, and the use of orthogonal and non-orthogonal Euclidean volumes with central subtraction, producing organization from the scenic space as the main element, were the most used criteria. That being said, it is concluded that the application of the proxemic principles established by Edward T. Hall influences the design of exhibition and cultural dissemination spaces, providing architecture that promotes social interaction, public participation, and a fluid and diverse cultural experience within the space.