Thesis (BS Architecture) University of the Philippines Mindanao, 2019

The study was conducted to promote cultural awareness and to redefine architecture as a profession that is not visually biased, but a profession that understands the connection of the human senses with its surrounding environment through creating a sensory experience in museum design. This aimed to identify the different elements found in a museum that engages the human senses. This involved studying historical and cultural museums found in Davao Region – Museo Dabawenyo, Philippine-Japan Museum and Subangan Museum through ocular inspection, mapping, and survey questionnaires. Major findings of the study state: (1) Subangan museum’s interior highly engaged the human senses and rendered high learning experience; (2) Museo Dabawenyo was favorable in terms of architectural style and display arrangement; (3) Philippine-Japan Museum had the least impact on museum-goers and thus needs improvement; (4) Physical discomfort and lack of design greatly affects learning and spatial experience. The data gathered from these museums were then used for designing a sensory-effective museum. Additional research on spatial flow and resting spaces may further enhance the study in understanding museum spaces and museum visitor’s experience.