An Application of Basil Bernstein Theory to the Analysis of Museum Space

This paper introduces the sociological theory about education by Basil Bernstein, and tries to adapt it to the interpretation of museum space. Reviewing the book, Class Codes and Control written by Bernstein in 1971, some spatial ideas, 'Classification and Framing', are collected and developed into a model by which designers could refine their designs at both conceptual and practical levels. It is further thought that this sociological thoughts could be established as a basis for the programing of museum space. For its application, British Museum and Sir John Soane's Museum, both are in London are examined. It is revealed that these museum spaces possess a different type of spatial rules, and thus impose different circulation logic to the viewers. It is concluded at the end that this kind of spatial logic can be applied back to the design process for better exhibition environment.