Architectural Design III: Ideal Architecture, The Office (E.Christ/Ch.Gantenbein)

Abstract

Based on selected buildings we study the basic principles of a timeless, urban architecture. Fieldwork is an essential part of the design. The selection of building includes various periods and purposes. Out of real houses we develop independent, ideal architectures.

Objective

Ability to systematically analyze buildings from different eras and their two- and three-dimensional representation and critical description in words. Investigation and understanding of architectural rules, qualities and principles. Acquisition of this knowledge and the ability to apply it in your own design.

Content

We start the semester with a series of excursions. Based on a selection of buildings we want to study the basic principles of timeless urban architecture. By examining the physical object on site, documenting, surveying, recording, our common journey of discovery begins, open and experimental, but also analytical and critical. The design process takes place in three steps: first the documentation of the Genoese example, then the formulation of architectural principles and finally, building on these principles, the own design, the project for an ideal architecture. It is not about a place or about a specific program, but only about the essence of the architectural form: body, space, type, structure and material. It is the most important and difficult task for any architect to find his own architectural language. Because without a repertoire of architectural vocabulary, we can also speak of images and forms, structures and principles, the architect is speechless. This language, this repertoire of architectural forms and principles is what our studio is all about: all students develop their repertoire during the semester. We could also say that they are working on their own idea of an ideal architecture. "Ideal" does not only mean beautiful, perfect and desirable, but above all that it's based on an idea. The students develop individual architectural ideas that are always available when designing. This process is supported by role models and examples. Because architecture is learned primarily by studying existing buildings and designs and translating them into their own pictures. Go and see is the first step. The decisive factor is that we already understand this looking as a creative act. From the consideration arises the invention. Documenting becomes Design. And so, by dealing creatively and critically with the forms handed down to us by architectural history, we create new architecture.. REAL ARCHITECTURE (FS21) The second semester of our studio is the conceptual counterpart to the first semester: The ideal form without place and time is juxtaposed with the real project in a real environment in the here and now. The task is to find a visionary scenario for the contemporary needs of urban life and to create an architectural form for it. All students will design a concrete project, a building. Methodologically, "Real Architecture" builds on the preceding semester "Ideal Architecture": The principles of the first semester are taken up again and further developed in the project of the second semester and connected with the specific aspects of place and function. The general idea of an architectural form becomes concrete and specific. And here, in the specific application in a concrete case, the architectural form also receives its social, economic and ultimately political relevance. The ideal becomes real.

Resources