Architecture as an Instrument

This paper crosses the discourses, thoughts and practices developped through two spatial instruments or installations, one in art, the other in architecture, with theories developped both inside and outside the architectural field, dealing with concepts like futurity, virtuality, functionality and negotiation. The intention is to gain a better understanding on the potential architecture has for its users. I argue that the notion function needs a distortion or reinterpretation in order to find this potential beyond the veil of functionality. I argue as well that architecture should shift its interest from its own physical appearance and its focus on solving questions towards being instrumental, towards installing fundamental and existential questions and negotiations through its appearance. The insights produced form a first base for further experiments as cases of research through design.

ISBN:9789081323802

Publication year:2009