Fashion Show as a Medium to Explore Architectural Personal Space through Body Movement

Abstract

This paper presents the results of an experimental and exploratory learning project conducted in the second project (Project II) of the first-year Architectural Design Studio at the Architecture Study Program, Universitas Syiah Kuala. The project addresses students' limited understanding of the relationship between body movement and spatial experience in shaping personal space. To foster a more critical, creative, and engaged learning process, educators developed a four-stage exercise over four weeks, with six hours of weekly sessions. The project explores how simple body movements can generate spatial awareness through two methods: fashion show performances and personal space constructions that move with the body. The findings suggest that integrating bodily movement as a design approach enables students to grasp the dynamic relationship between the human body, spatial boundaries, and architectural form. This paper serves as a guideline for educators to develop similar experimental exercises, helping students understand and construct personal space through performative and embodied experiences.