IN-PERSON Barcelona. Section B

Abstract

The holiday village of Portmeirion in North Wales, has fascinated visitors since its creation in 1926 by Clough Williams-Ellis. Despite its architectural significance and Grade II listing, Portmeirion has gained more recognition in popular culture than in architectural history, especially due to its portrayal as the backdrop for the TV series The Prisoner in 1967. Inspired by the Italian village of Portofino, Portmeirion reflects Mediterranean architecture and has influenced postmodernism in the late 20th century. This research aims to provide insights into the integration of architecture, landscape, and creative vision in Portmeirion, an aspect overlooked in previous studies. While some research has examined its architectural styles, geography, and historical context, little attention has been given to its spatial relationships and design principles. Therefore, this study seeks to investigate the architectural topology of Portmeirion and uncover its concealed spatial dynamics. The primary research question guiding this study is: What are the key spatial relationships and design principles that define the architectural topology of Portmeirion? By addressing this question, the study aims to reveal the underlying connections, hierarchies, and patterns that contribute to Portmeirion’s distinctive spatial organisation. The findings of this study have practical implications for architectural practice, urban design, and heritage conservation. By understanding Portmeirion’s architectural topology, future projects can draw inspiration from its design principles. Urban designers can gain insights into the interplay between spatial relationships and design aesthetics to create harmonious built environments. Heritage conservation efforts can also benefit from a deeper understanding of Portmeirion’s spatial composition, aiding in its preservation and appreciation. This study addresses the conference theme of Cultural Pasts and Urban Histories and Heritage.