Architectural Design III: Fountain community. Cumünanza da bügl (R.Boltshauser)

Abstract

The Lower Engadine is characterized, in addition to its favorable geographic location, by its particularly well preserved and quality building culture. We approach seven locations both analytically and in direct experience, with the aim of recognizing existing qualities, but also sustainable, future-oriented potentials in order to create urgently needed living space and lively village centers.

Objective

Semester topic "Design III": • Addressing dense, sustainable, circular, simple building • Development of a broad theoretical basic • Holistic design of spatial atmospheres in the interplay of concept, context, construction, climate, sustainability and materiality • Research and development of architectural themes resulting from energy and climatic considerations • Practical work with models, plans and visualization programs as part of the design process Lecture "Construction III": Introducing students into different design and making approaches to find a path towards their personal approach on designing and making.

Content

Semester topic "Architectural Design III": The Lower Engadine has often been declared hopeless. Be it as part of the 'Alpine wasteland', which proposed the deliberate abandonment of the shrinking rural parts of the country in the sense of a stronger differentiation of urban development, or currently due to the ongoing sellout of the buildings that characterize the locality to foreigners, which results in the progressive emptying of the village centers. The Engadin house seems to have found its fate as an investment object and refuge for the wealthy, finally and irretrievably. We oppose this fatalistic perspective with decided optimism and develop positive visions that strengthen existing qualities by means of a lively building culture and at the same time give expression and shape to new needs and ways of life. We study exemplary Engadine houses to see how a type has developed from the way of life, the climatic conditions and the locally available resources, which on the one hand is robust and recognizable, and on the other hand is always specific and sustainable through situational differentiations and continuous reconstruction, further construction and additions. However, respect and admiration for the buildings that have evolved over centuries should not hinder us, but rather encourage us to think the houses further and discover the transformative potential of these strong structures. Our shared vision this semester is a vibrant village center. For the sustainable development of village structures, we must not nostalgically indulge in romantic notions of village life, but rather acknowledge and anticipate the real needs and lifestyles of village residents. Affordable housing for families and hospitality workers, multigenerational living, and places for community living are buzzwords for sustainable development and maintaining quality of life. We will address the issue of sustainability in its entirety and, in addition to the aforementioned social aspects, we will study and work on the issues of gray energy, reuse of building components, circularity, sufficiency, use of passive climatic systems and simple, reversible constructions. Lecture "Construction III": The overall topic of the lecture series is “Construction – Elements of Architecture”. The lecture series gives the students an insight into different construction and design methods. The lectures are held by four different professorships in a block of 5 lectures in a row and showcasing their individual approach on design and architecture in general.

Resources