“The skin reads the texture, weight, density and temperature of the matter. The surface of an old object, polished to perfection by the tool of the craftsman and the assiduous hands of its users, seduces the stroking of our hand. It is pleasurable to press the door handle shining from the thousand hands that have entered the door before us; the clean shimmer of ageless wear has turned into an image of welcome and hospitality. The door handle is a handshake of the building. The tactile sense connects us with time and tradition; through marks of touch we shake the hands of countless generations.”
Architecture of the Seven Senses x Juhani Pallasmaa
Article from Questions of Perception: Phenomenology of Architecture
I was waiting outside when I saw the door handle to the Packard Lofts on Broadway in Oakland. The door itself had a look from a more recent time. The handle, on the other hand, had a much wiser glow. The grooves in the plate and the cold sensation of the metal handle sparked a nostalgic sensation of exploring spaces before the pandemic. In other circumstances, the handle would act as an invitation to transition to a different space. Nowadays, to touch it is a reminder of all the surfaces I’ve come in contact with and to be cautious of its history. But even with this cautiousness, I still felt a little joy to join the throngs of people who’ve participated in the exchange of oils that have worn down the finish. Like those shopping for cars on Oakland auto row many moons ago to those who currently reside there, I too shook its hand. I appreciate its sensual invitation to be a part of the building’s story.
Packard Lofts c.1913
Oakland, CA