Model and Reinterpretation: Arne Jacobsen reference-based architecture in Spain

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Abstract

This paper points to the significant attention of Spanish architects towards Scandinavian architecture. Through decades Felix Solaguren Beascoa has provided extensive presentation of the phenomenon: ’axis mirando del nord ... y al syd’, (’looking north... and south’) where we see the big influential impact Scandinavian architecture has had on Spanish architects from the 50s onwards. In search of a history-based architectural expression, nordic architectural works have been implemented as remarkable Spanish second versions, creating testimony to the relevance of research on the relationship between the original found and
the projected – between the model and its reinterpretation.

This research delimits the field of matter to the Arne Jacobsen reference-based architecture in Spain. Recently we have witnessed a new generation of Spanish reference-based buildings that awaits to be related to the previous generations to form a coherent picture. To maintain a sense of continuity and relevance of the Spanish architectural tradition of Scandinavian influence, research on this contemporary second generation of constructed works needs to be done.

Constructed works in question are clear references to the original works in Denmark. Solaguren speaks of these works as conscious reinterpretations. I argue that we need to come closer to an understanding of how these reinterpretations of foreign architectural repertoire take on a new significance. By looking more closely at the mechanisms of transference from the model to the derivative version, I investigate how the Spanish reinterpretations add value and validity to the original and how they hold a critical potential.

By conducting comparative, decoding readings of the original and its Spanish reinterpretation, I establish a dialogical space for analysis which can explicate the permanent and adaptive parts in the original work and the Spanish version respectively. On a general level, the analysis shows the similarities and the differences which arise in the adaptation to another climate, culture, functions, other traditions of construction techniques and tectonics. On a more specific level, I want to find the focuses of the reinterpretations. Do we see the appropriation of an idea, a structure or a detail? Do we find the architectural object in its entirety
or in its role as dismantled? Regarding the latter, I want to discuss how the analysis can benefit from a conceptual framework of appropriation and spolia; the last-mentioned being pointed out by Dale Kinney as an evolving analytical concept.

Taken together, I wish to evaluate the architectural reference-based design process as a comparative, analytical work - as a reflexive process of interpreting and reinterpreting - receiving and producing an architectural design. I want to claim that the process holds the potential of a design method.

Lastly, I conclude how and why the appropriated architecture in Spain can inform back on the interpretation of architecture of Jacobsen today and engage and re-launch attention to how the Spanish Jacobsen reception can influence and broaden also the Danish reception of this architect. Through the spanish renegotiations of the original work danish architects will be able to revitalize their conceptions of Arne Jacobsen architecture - being more aware on initiating an approach to their current task of transforming or adapting the Jacobsen architecture in a way, that respects and not blurs the qualities in this architecture.
Original languageEnglish
Publication date11 Apr 2019
Number of pages1
Publication statusPublished - 11 Apr 2019
Event9th Symposium Design and Research in Architecture and Landscape: References-Referenzen - Faculty of Architecture and Landscape Sciences | Leibniz Universität Hannover , Hannover, Germany
Duration: 11 Apr 201913 Apr 2019

Conference

Conference9th Symposium Design and Research in Architecture and Landscape
LocationFaculty of Architecture and Landscape Sciences | Leibniz Universität Hannover
Country/TerritoryGermany
CityHannover
Period11/04/201913/04/2019

Keywords

  • Arne Jacobsen
  • modern architecture
  • references
  • interpretation - reinterpretation
  • reflexivity
  • spolia

Artistic research

  • No

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