Constraint in ArchitectureTypology and theoretical basis with reference to the concept of affordance

This research, concerning the effective presence of the concept of affordance in contemporary architectural discourse, addresses the overemphasis placed on practical aspects of the concept of affordance and the ignorance of theoretical thinking about this concept and the inevitable conceptual evolutions which emerge. Consequently, the concept of constraint is going to be introduced and clarified while providing a theoretical basis in reference to a more developed understanding of the concept of affordance in architecture. The research concentrates on explaining a clear ontology and introducing a conceptual structure for the concept of constraint, which leads to a comprehensive typology of architectural constraints. This research is conducted through a qualitative approach and relies on the most recent scientific theories to develop a compatible concept of affordance in architecture. Furthermore, based on logical thinking and analytical methods the concept of constraint is going to be developed. At the first step the concept of affordance is developed based on the Heideggerian point of view. Consequently, a theoretical basis is established to introduce and clarify the concept of constraint through developing the concept of niche into architectural interaction field. (A.I.F). Then a three-dimensional conceptual structure based on the origin, function and domain of the architectural constraints is organized. The results of this research provide the basic theoretical knowledge required to have a deeper understanding of the two fundamental concepts of contemporary architectural discourse: affordance and constraint. The study confirms the undeniable essential role of constraint in the perception and creation of architecture. Constraints are the value of the architectural characters, being put by the members of A.I. F. Constraints guarantee the affordances architectural work is going to afford. Consequently, they guarantee the meaning and the truth of architecture. Thinking on constraint brings about the potential to prove a new perspective in theoretical aspects of architectural knowledge and consequently affects the practice of architecture.