Uncovering the implicit dimensions of empathy in architectural design: seeing through empathy

This article examines the implicit dimensions of empathy in the early architectural design process, utilizing think-aloud protocols to reveal how designers engage empathically with their creations. Grounded in early 20th-century empathy theories, phenomenological philosophy, and design cognition, we developed the ‘Feeling AS’ empathy framework, which identifies three core modes of empathy: (1) user, (2) space, and (3) movement. Analysis of design protocols demonstrates how empathy shapes design thinking, influences problem reframing, and uncovers spatial affordances tied to user embodiment. Empathy contributes to the design process in two key ways. First, it aids in problem identification, ideation, and a deep understanding of users’ needs during the conceptual stage. Second, empathy enables designers to refine design solutions by revisiting decisions and reframing problems from the users’ perspective as the process evolves. The study portrays empathy as a perceptual and reflective tool, akin to sketching, that facilitates diverse perspectives and establishes embodied connections with users and spaces. We frame this process as ‘seeing through empathy,’ encompassing empathic framing, spatial affordances, and embodiment. This research broadens the scope of empathy research to include spatial dimensions, emphasizing its inherent role and extending it beyond conscious strategies to become an embedded aspect of the creative process.