Description
In contemporary architecture, there is a renewed focus on resource production, consumption, and use. Wood may be considered a renewable resource, potentially abundant, carbon neutral and recyclable. However, the environmental benefits of using timber are not straightforward. Also, it seems as if the architectural implications of designing with wood have not been fully articulated. As such, it seems necessary to rethink the potential of wood in contemporary architectural design practice. The aim of this paper is to investigate the topic of Rethinking Resources with a specific focus on the qualitative potential of wood as informed by traditional building culture. It is asked how knowledge embodied in crafts tradition and local vernacular may inform a contemporary architectural design practice and inspire the development of (more) sustainable building culture(s). A traditional farmhouse has been investigated and analysed with regard to technical properties, cultural-historical qualities, and experiential effects. An experimental timber structure has been built by students at The Royal Danish Academy, and the results have been described and analysed seen through a phenomenological-hermeneutic lens. It is concluded that technical properties, cultural-historical qualities and experiential effects as found in crafts tradition and local vernacular, may inform a contemporary design practice. It is argued, that questions concerning sustainability should be seen in a holistic perspective and the building as situated within a larger material, environmental and social (eco)system. In this perspective, traditional building culture may supplement and qualify contemporary design strategies and may contribute to inspiring future (more) sustainable building culture(s).| Period | 5 Jul 2023 |
|---|---|
| Event title | UIA World Congress of Architects 2023 Copenhagen |
| Event type | Conference |
| Conference number | 28 |
| Organisers | International Union of Architects |
| Location | København, DenmarkShow on map |
| Degree of Recognition | International |
Keywords
- Cultural Heritage
- Transformation
- Conservation
- Sustainable Building Culture