The rise of digital media has created new communication pathways and social networks that change the way people interact in public spaces. In a paper about performative environments, Ole Jensen and Bo Thomsen explain that “the increased use of mobile technologies and various other mobile medias create an imbalance in the attention paid to the local environment in relation to the global network.” In order to reconnect people with their surroundings, architects are experimenting with performative environments that integrate digital technologies into the built environment to bridge the gap between cyber-space and public space.

In a paper titled The Cyborg Self and the Networked City, W.J. Mitchell explains that “fluid collections of wirelessly interconnecting individuals – perhaps assembled from the beginning, in cyberspace rather than at any physical location – are becoming a crucial fact of urban life”. To build a strong and responsive networked city, it is important to create digital connections to local physical spaces in order to bridge the gap between cyber-communication, the natural environment, and public space.

By nature, green buildings integrate more seamlessly with the surrounding ecosystem and create awareness about the local environment. Coupling digital media with building lifecycle information and environmental indicators solidifies the connection between occupants and the natural landscape. Occupants could view creative data displays of a building’s water usage and renewable energy production as well as real-time weather and local air quality information. When you feel connected with your surroundings and community, environmental sensitivity increases and well as the awareness of community issues.

For the next few posts, I will continue to explore the connections between digital media, architecture, performative environments, relational aesthetics, and environmental awareness. Stay tuned.

Rayna Gordon-Hellman
rayna@medized.com
415-994-6549 office