Intention construction, towards a non-semantic architecture

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Date
1998-09-01T00:00:00Z
Authors
Minuk, Simon Neil
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Abstract
This thesis focuses on the relationship between aesthetic intention, meaning and architecture. The present context of pluralism, commodificat on and a schism between theory and practice both guides and limits the making of architecture. What nature of meaning and authorship is possible in this context? Architects structure their intention in relation to meaning. The prevalent tendency is for architects to rely on semanticization and overconceptualization. This underemphasizes the embodied experience. This thesis proposes a shift from an architecture of semantics to an architecture of experience. This allows for a grounding of authorship and the bridging of theory and practice. It is a shift towards the realm of the real: material directness; the non-semantic; and the visceral dimension of architecture. The aim here is to construct a theory of architecture that might support authorship and aesthetic intent. Minimalism is advanced as a preferred approach. Construction, which has become increasingly separate from design, is identified as the principal medium by which this more visceral architecture is realized. A reassessment of the primacy of construction in relation to aesthetic intent is proposed. Through a process of demythification and remythification, a new conception of construction is formed. The fragmented nature of the construction process, the result of the division of labour, and the diminished role of the architect make it even more necessary to understand the reality of construction and building materials. Finally, 'montage' is proposed as a specific strategy that can be employed in situating this more visceral architecture within a postmodern, pluralist context. Montage allows differing fragments and voices to coexist. It is here where a renewed authorship can occur.
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