Architectural Design V-IX: Urban Myths (T. Emerson)

Abstract

How three mature sequoia trunks, measuring up to 1.1m in diameter, became available in Zurich is somewhat vague; accident, sickness, potential danger of falling, overcrowding? What we do know is we have some very precious material and we have the opportunity to make something useful and special. It is a coincidence that allows a new structure to create new space.

Objective

Critical thinking, personal attitude Being aware of the impact and context of the architect and construction industry within a broad field of disciplines, understanding the multitude of complex and unpredictable social, societal cultural and environmental factors influencing decision making. Acquisition of subject-specific knowledge Acquire and deploy technical knowledge in a range of fields Working methodology Understand historical, theoretical and social context, using primary and secondary research methods, demonstrating a critical and reflective approach to a topic. Conversion of a conceptual intention into an architectural project Use a broad range of knowledge and skills and to formulate a response to a brief using individual and collective values and judgement. Capability to design Generate design proposals in response to a brief using the understanding of a body of theoretical and practical knowledge. Representation and presentation in different media Apply a range of communication methods and media to present design proposals clearly and effectively, with the competent use of hand and CAD drawing programmes, photography, video, sound and models. Engagement in the studio Evaluate evidence, arguments, and assumptions in order to make and present judgements within structured discourse, demonstrating the ability to work, learn, and communicate with others.

Content

How three mature sequoia trunks, measuring up to 1.1m in diameter, became available in Zurich is somewhat vague; accident, sickness, potential danger of falling, overcrowding? What we do know is we have some very precious material and we have the opportunity to make something useful and special. It is a coincidence that allows a new structure to create new space. We will start this semester by making a space for gathering in the garden. The shift in focus from making to the wider territory will remain emphatically hands on. If maps, laws, policies will inform our design, it will be led by direct encounter with the architecture on site. We shall investigate how space is produced, by whom and for whom. And here, we are not constrained by humans only. The site will be a walk across Zurich from forest to forest. You will document the spatial, constructed and natural conditions traversed, in ascending scales until a singular space is identified which reveals both visible and invisible constructs that govern the built reality of Zurich. What coincidence of material resources with technical and political tools produce the conditions for the spatial structure we inhabit? The selected point along the walk will be the location of a full scale intervention. The aim is to alter, restore or repair but above all to transform the space in material form to reveal and enable a new civic function. You should know and test your rights. Look at a gate, a fence, a forest, a lawn or a yard, a party wall or a neighbour’s window, weeds growing between paving slabs. These are the beginnings of architecture; the constraint but also the opportunity to transform things into a more equitable space for us and others.

Resources