Week 5: Reading 01 - Erasing Architecture into the System

The chapter ‘Erasing Architecture into the System’ by Arata Isozaki, from the book Re: CP” elaborates further upon this concept of adaptable and easily dismantled buildings. As in previous week’s readings that discusses the need for adaptable architecture, this weeks reading presents the Fun Palace by Cedric Price, an indeterminate, modular, adjustable building program that enabled adaption and extension.

Essentially, the permanent framework elements of the building are designed by the architect. All other design aspects are left to the discretion of users according to aesthetic preference and budget.

In asking the question of what would buildings look like/consist of if they shifted away from the traditional “four walls and a roof idea” concept of what a building should be, the Fun Palace is just one answer.

The example proves that such a building program is possible however the question I am more interested in is whether it is possible for them to become the norm for building solutions in the future. I understood from the reading that whilst this type of building program sufficiently and quickly fulfils the functional need required, aesthetics are not as highly considered.

Taking this into account along with last weeks reading which discusses the influence of mass media and consumerism, even though the box fulfils its functions, it could be safe to say that initial reactions from society, especially those not appreciative of the theory behind it, could reject it due to its lack of sophistication and aesthetic appeal.

Just as in the first weeks reading which mentioned that it is very easy to overlook new technology because they aren’t a hit, when it comes to architecture, if not a state of emergency, it is easy enough for non-educated design people to overlook this design due to its lack of aesthetics.

Furthermore, which this building programs may signify the redundancy of the profession of architecture as noted in the title of the reading.