This thesis assesses the traditional mealtime rituals of a people. Our engagement of such constructed environments within a particular material culture is affected by the physical items associated with defining its setting. The purpose of this method of inquiry is to develop a fuller comprehension of ‘place setting’ as customary observance (rite) and interlude (ritornello). Our engagement of such constructed environments within a particular material culture is affected by the physical items associated with defining its setting. This work will demonstrate the role of place setting as agent in our perception and conception of reality, including the relationship between mind and matter, substance and attribute, fact and value as it relates to the human experience of the mealtime ritual.

In the field of architecture, ‘building use’ is referred to as program. In this sense, the work of an architect is the orchestration of prescribed activities within an anticipated building. Using the house for example, it is assumed that the residential building type will in some way offer certain provisions relative to shelter.

In this thesis, I will examine the programmatic phase of making and evaluating architecture. I will: (1) consider current notions of program within the discipline in order to establish its meaning; (2) demonstrate a method of research that is based on conceptual considerations (what is known), as well as, perceptual observations (what is sensed); (3) propose the development of a more comprehensive use of human behavior/material culture specific to a particular occupant set (a people).