The Built Environment and Social Theory: Towards an Architectural Geography ∗

This paper critiques the narrow empiricist focus and inadequate theoretical development of much architectural geography. The geographer's concern and interest in the built environment is integrated with a more critical and relevant awareness of social theory. Four theoretical categories of building and architectural function are discussed: buildings as cultural artifacts, as objects of value, as signs, and as a spatial system. Directions for research are proposed for the example of historic preservation.