DAMPA_75_years_of_quiet_design_ENG - Flipbook - Page 13
One notable Danish architectural commentator on the
importance of ceiling design was Steen Eiler Rasmussen,
who observed in his 1957 book ‘Experiencing Architecture’
that, as the built environment is often perceived in motion,
ceilings guide movement and create rhythm through their
height variations, shapes and directional patterns.
Indeed, Rasmussen argued that, far from being merely passive surfaces, they are among the most powerful elements
in shaping the character and mood of rooms, defining zones
and atmospheres, influencing how light is reflected and
resulting in impressions of intimacy or monumentality, gravitas or levity. Their design enables spaces to be organised
without any need to add extra walls while their forms and
detailing reflect cultural identity.
Ceilings of orderly appearance with good acoustical and climatic performance – such as those made by DAMPA – support the human activity below them.
DeloitteHuset, Copenhagen, 3XN, 2005
Photo: Adam Mørk
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