The Norms of Human Living Space

Bora Kelmendi¹, and Florina Jerliu²

1. Department of Architecture and Design, Faculty of Architecture, University La Sapienza, Italy

2. Faculty of Architecture, University of Prishtina, Italy

Abstract: This paper revisits Vitruvius’s norms of good architecture in order to adapt them to the new conditions of human living space, as determined through considerations of human psycho-geography of place. It addresses the contemporary meaning of the triad “utilitas, firmitas, venustas” and identifies new notions attributable to these norms, based on the present problems we face in creating sustainable human living spaces. The paper draws from the call to revisit Vitruvius in the contemporary context; scholars today still agree that through achieving a proper balance of these norms, architecture meets the needs of people in terms of everyday life, as well the connection with other constituent domains of human life. When discussing utilitas (utility) we raise the question of the user of the space claiming that there is an extend of anonymity in its conception which needs reconsideration. With firmitas (firmness) we suggest a better understanding of sustainability of life in-between buildings, and with venustas (beauty) we raise the questions of aesthetics of space. The paper argues that architecture need to accommodate above all one’s inner fulfilment, and one way is through adjusting the well-embodied and comprehended traditional norms of architecture, into norms of a more humane living space.

Key words: vitruvius, utilitas, firmitas, venustas, human living space, anonymous user, good design