Architecture

Research identifies key architectural and urban design patterns that enhance 'thin place' experiences—moments of perceived transcendence or sacredness. The study compares diverse case studies, from the civic center of Siena, Italy, to the remote Skellig Michael Island in Ireland, using Likert scale analyses to quantify how 20 placemaking patterns contribute to these experiences. Findings reveal that purpose-built structures like James Turrell's Twilight Epiphany Skyspace and the author-designed Starhouse demonstrate particularly impactful thin place designs, while natural settings and smaller chapels also exhibit luminous qualities. The analysis highlights specific 'thin pattern elicitors' as critical in shaping transformative spatial experiences.

Tabb, P. J. (2023). Architecture. Thin Place Design, 91–147. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003354888-4