In the context of modern architectural theory, genius loci has profound implications for place-making, falling within the philosophical branch of phenomenology. This field of architectural discourse is explored most notably by the theorist Christian Norberg-Schulz in his book, Genius Loci: Towards a Phenomenology of Architecture.

“Architecture means to visualize the genius loci, and the task of the architect is to create meaningful places, whereby he helps man to dwell.” A belief in classical Roman religion called “ genius loci” means the protective spirit of a place.

In Genius Loci: Against a phenomenology of architecture, genius loci is described as representing the sense people have of a place, understood as the sum of all physical as well as symbolic values in nature and the human environment catering to a holistic commitment of all the senses as against the dominant privilege of the ocular sense or the visual.