Literature Review: Exploring Sacred Black Spaces
Introduction
This literature review explores the significance of sacred Black spaces and how architectural principles, historical narratives, and cultural resilience contribute to their design. The purpose is to establish a foundation for understanding how communal design, adaptive reuse, and ornamentation with symbolic motifs influence the emotional and cultural impact of these spaces.
Historical Context and Cultural Identity
Sacred Black spaces have long served as cultural anchors, preserving identity and supporting community resilience. Historically, these spaces emerged during times of social struggle, providing both spiritual refuge and platforms for resistance. Henry Louis Gates Jr., in The Black Church: This Is Our Story, This Is Our Song, highlights how churches were not only places of worship but also acted as community centers where strategies for social change were cultivated, especially during the Civil Rights Movement.
Architectural and Spatial Elements
Key architectural features such as symbolic motifs, communal layouts, and the intentional use of light and space are prominent in sacred Black spaces. These elements create both a physical and emotional connection to cultural history. The design of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, inspired by the Yoruban corona, exemplifies how architecture can embody cultural narratives while using form and materials to convey historical depth (Adjaye, 2016). The deliberate use of natural light in such spaces often enhances the spiritual experience while reinforcing connections to African traditions.
Generational Continuity and Trauma
Spaces such as Black cemeteries, historical neighborhoods, and churches hold the weight of generational trauma while simultaneously preserving histories of resistance and cultural affirmation. Mindy Fullilove, in Root Shock, explores how urban renewal and systemic displacement often resulted in the erasure of these spaces, leading to emotional and cultural loss. However, their preservation and continued use in community rituals emphasize the importance of space in maintaining generational memory and healing.
Hilyard Robinson - Courtesy Google
Key Black Architects and Their Contributions
Architects such as Hilyard Robinson, Howard Mackey, Paul R. Williams, and Robert Vaughn have played pivotal roles in shaping sacred Black spaces. Robinson and Mackey, both instrumental in the development of Howard University’s architecture program, prioritized the creation of educational spaces with communal interaction at the forefront. Paul R. Williams, known for his elegant residential designs, often included symbolic ornamentation that reflected African cultural motifs. Robert Vaughn’s works frequently combined classical and African design elements, emphasizing a balance between history and innovation. Collectively, these architects integrated design principles rooted in cultural expression and community-building.
Hilyard Robinson Drawing - Courtesy African American Design Nexus
Design Principles and Metrics for Data Collection
Key principles identified across the literature include:
Communal Design: Spaces that encourage congregation and shared experiences.
Adaptive Reuse: Preserving historical elements while adapting spaces for modern use.
Symbolic Ornamentation: Incorporation of motifs and symbols that convey cultural narratives.
To measure the impact of these principles, data collection will include metrics such as:
Population engagement and usage patterns.
Architectural styles and historical significance.
Square footage and spatial organization.
Event frequency and community participation.
Sacredness and Community Impact
Sacred Black spaces serve as emotional sanctuaries, offering spiritual grounding and cultural expression. Gates (2020) emphasizes how these spaces foster collective memory, spiritual reflection, and social cohesion. Their role extends beyond architecture, becoming integral components of community resilience and empowerment.
Langston Terrace - Courtesy Google
Contemporary Applications and Reparative Design
The application of sacred Black space principles in contemporary design holds the potential to advance reparative justice. Sasha Costanza-Chock, in Design Justice, advocates for culturally-responsive architecture that centers marginalized voices and traditions. This includes the intentional use of cultural references and historical forms to create spaces that both reflect and empower Black communities.
Literature Review Summary
This literature review has identified that communal spaces, adaptive reuse, and symbolic motifs are central to defining sacred Black spaces. These principles have been demonstrated by influential Black architects who emphasized cultural representation and emotional resonance in their work. The findings reinforce the idea that architecture is not merely functional but can act as a vessel for cultural storytelling and healing.
Conclusion and Data Collection Plan
Based on the literature reviewed, my data collection will focus on:
Conducting surveys and interviews to understand community perceptions of sacred spaces.
Using tartan grids for spatial analysis of sacred Black spaces.
Collecting metrics on population engagement, event frequency, and architectural elements.
Performing site observations to assess the impact of architectural features on emotional well-being.
This comprehensive approach will ensure that my research is both data-driven and culturally grounded, allowing for a deeper understanding of how sacred Black spaces can continue to serve as beacons of identity, healing, and empowerment.
References:
Gates, H. L. (2020). The Black Church: This Is Our Story, This Is Our Song.
Fullilove, M. (2005). Root Shock.
Adjaye, D. (2016). National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Anderson, J. D. (1988). The Education of Blacks in the South, 1860-1935.
Costanza-Chock, S. (2020). Design Justice.
Robinson, H. (1941). Public Housing Designs.
Mackey, H. (1950). Howard University Campus Masterplan.
Williams, P. R. (1930). Residential Designs for Black Communities.
Vaughn, R. (1955). Sacred Spaces and Symbolism in Architecture.
Hayden, D. (1995). The Power of Place.