The Monthly Scientific Journal of Bagh-e Nazar

Narrativity in Contemporary Architecture: A Heideggerian Phenomenological Reading

https://doi.org/10.22034/bagh.2025.522717.5819
Volume 23, Issue 154
April 2026
Pages 19-32
The Monthly Scientific Journal of Bagh-e Nazar

Document Type : Original Research Article

Authors

Shirin Navab Lahijani 1
Saeed Haghir 2
Ali Akbari 3
Roxana Abdollahi 4

1 Department of Architecture, ST. C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

2 Department of Landscape, Faculty of Architecture, College of Fine Arts, University of Tehran, Iran

3 Department of Architecture, YI. C., mam Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

4 Department of Architecture, Qo. C., Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran

Abstract
Problem statement: In contemporary architecture, a kind of semantic isolation can be observed that reduces architecture to a merely physical object and weakens its connection with human experience and meaning. This challenge highlights the necessity of reinterpreting architecture from a phenomenological perspective, allowing spaces to become grounds for the manifestation of being and lived experience. Heideggerian phenomenology, with its emphasis on concepts such as Dasein and dwelling, provides a framework for a deeper understanding of this relationship.
Research objective: This study aims to explain the fundamental categories of narrative architecture from the perspective of Heideggerian phenomenology and to examine their reflections in human lived experience. The research also seeks to offer a theoretical framework for liberating contemporary architecture from semantic isolation and strengthening the bond between humans and their environment.
Research method: This study employed a systematic meta-synthesis and content analysis method based on the Sandelowski and Barroso model. The research population consisted of 57 scientific articles published between 2000 and 2025 in databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, selected according to defined inclusion criteria. The data were qualitatively coded through thematic analysis and categorized into 10 main themes.
Conclusion: The findings revealed that these categories, including identity and meaning, historical narrative and heritage, sensory and perceptual experience, user interaction with space and context, narrative structure and form, symbolic expression, thematic and contextual narratives, integration and connection in design, interaction with context and community, and the architect’s life quality and identity, overlap with Heideggerian concepts such as Being-in-the-world and care. Consequently, narrative architecture can enrich lived experience and lead to the creation of meaningful and identity-forming spaces.

Keywords

Architectural Phenomenology
Heideggerian Phenomenology
Lived Experience
Dasein
Ontology of Place
Narrative Architecture
Phenomenology of Architecture.
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