Week One: Taking A Walk

After an introduction to this module, we was asked to 'take a theory for a walk'. I decided to use the word 'atmosphere'. When thinking and understanding the word atmosphere, it is understood as two things; A mixture of gases that surrounds the Earth, and in a more architectural design understanding; that it refers to the mood, situation, or sensorial qualities of a space.

Atmosphere within a room or space can be created and manipulated through many different means;

• Function of room or space
• Lighting
• Materials
• Textures
• Colours 
• Smells and scents
• Sound quality 

From the historic dockyard to the high end shopping centre, Gunwharf Quays, it is evident that there are lots of different types of atmospheres through Portsmouth. When walking through the city, I decided to photograph the different atmospheres; 

I believe that these photos each represent the different atmospheres in Portsmouth well, they each have their own characteristics (lighting, surroundings etc.) that show the individual atmospheres. For example, the last photo is taken on Tower Alley, near Old Portsmouth, the photo gives an atmosphere of derelict and negligent. This is because of the overgrown plants and the dirty abandoned building, but in reality, this street is surrounded by houses, shops, pubs, and is right opposite the shore. Another example is the eighth photo, the lighting and lack of people and objects gives an atmosphere of warmth and serenity, this atmosphere of serenity is also produced by the warm lighting inside the windows and dark shadows outside of the house. In reality, this is a photo of a house on the junction of Margate Road and Victoria Road North, a very lively and crowded area of Portsmouth.

(All photos taken by me.)