The act of creation and the spirit of a place

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Nili Portugali presents her interpretation of the holistic-phenomenological world view, which aligns with contemporary scientific discourse and Buddhist philosophy. She emphasizes that architecture's primary purpose is to create a human environment, addressing the challenge of utilizing modern technology effectively. However, modern society has often neglected the value of human experience, leading to alienation from the environment. Current architectural trends frequently prioritize rationality over emotion, creating a disconnect between buildings and their inhabitants. Portugali argues that to foster a sense of belonging in our spaces, a transformation of the mechanistic worldview is necessary, rather than merely changing styles. Drawing on Christopher Alexander’s idea that universal codes underpin human architecture, she illustrates how her unique planning process, rooted in the existing site conditions, can evoke a shared spiritual experience in buildings, regardless of cultural background. Her projects reflect the physical, cultural, and social realities of Israel, embodying a unique interface between Eastern and Western influences. With over three decades of experience, Portugali is a lecturer at the Bezalel Academy of Art & Design and has studied and collaborated with Alexander at the Center for Environmental Structure in Berkeley.