CONTENTS Introduction Motivation Aim Research Questions Sequence of Thesis Section 1 : Meaning in Architecture : A Conceptual Framework 1. Semiotics : Introduction 11 2. Directions in Architectural Semiotics 15 2.1 Communicative systems vs. non communicative systems 2.2 Architecture as a non communicative system 2.3 Langue and Parole in Architecture 2.4 Syntax in architecture 2.5 The semantic aspect in architecture 3. Function and Sign – The semiotics of Architecture by Umberto Eco 20 3.1 Communication in architecture 3.2 The Architectural Sign 21 3.3 Primary and Secondary Functions (Denotation and Connotation) 22 3.4 Architectural Codes 24 Section 2 : Detailing : Construing Significance 1. Defining the term-detail 29 2. The tell-the detail 30 3. Detail as semiotic tools for meaning in architecture 31 3.1 Construction – Structure 32 3.2 Program – Use 37 3.3 Performance – Shelter 39 Section 3 : Methodology 1. The semiotic aspect of design 43 2. Framework for analysis 44 3. Criteria for selection of details (in case studies) 48 4. Selection of case studies 50 5. Scope and Limitations 6. About the architect – Prof.Neelkanth Chhaya 51 7. Codes in operation – Architect’s ideology as filter 52 Section 4: Case Studies Analysis 1. The Sarabhai House, Phulpara 57 2. The Parikh House, Aalloa Hills Resort 81 3. The Priya House, Shilaj 107 Section 5: Conclusion 1. Emerging style of the architect through detailing 129 1.1 Scale 1.2 Materials 1.3 Construction - Structure 1.4 Pragmatics 2. Details as semiotic tools for communication in 133 Works Cited 135 Bibliography 137 Illustration Credits 139 Appendix 149