Experiment Title:

Intentional Thresholds: Testing Architectural Friction as a Catalyst for Care

Hypothesis

Spaces that introduce intentional architectural “friction”—such as entry rituals, symbolic thresholds, or gentle constraints—will lead to:

• Greater attention and care within the space
• Higher emotional engagement and presence
• Increased respect (cleanliness, quietness, slower movement)
• More meaningful and prolonged interactions with the environment and others

Concept: What is Friction?

Architectural friction refers to purposefully designed actions or pauses that slow users down, inviting intention. This can be symbolic (e.g., bowing, removing shoes), physical (e.g., narrow entry, low arch), or emotional (e.g., a poem at the threshold).

Setup

🌀 Create Two Comparable Spaces:

• Friction Space with intentional entry ritual or threshold
• Control Space with open access and no explicit invitation

🧱 Possible Friction Elements:

• Physical:
  • Narrow archway or short curtain requiring bowing/crouching
  • Platform where shoes must be removed
  • Entry ramp with natural sound (crunching gravel, wooden planks)
• Symbolic/Emotional:
  • Short poetic sign: “Pause. Take one deep breath before entering.”
  • Water bowl: “Wash your hands of what you’ve carried in.”
  • Offering station: “Leave a word, take a silence.”