My focus is set on post-war redevelopment, revitalising war-torn nations and advancing architectural standards prioritising the design of resilient, sustainable buildings that promote community recovery and support long-term urban renewal.
In the post-totalitarian landscape of Romania, the erosion of trust has left an indelible mark on the dynamics of production, consumption, and environmental considerations. Emerging from a history marked by political transitions, the legacy of distrust has intricately woven itself into the fabric of societal structures, influencing various facets of daily life.
In the realm of production, the apprehension stemming from a lack of trust has hindered innovation, perpetuated corruption, and discouraged crucial investments. This, in turn, has cast a shadow over the country’s industrial growth, impeding progress and efficiency. Consumer scepticism, a natural byproduct of this atmosphere, has instigated a shift towards cautious and conservative consumption patterns. Formal economies find themselves in competition with the burgeoning informal sector, where transactions occur beyond the purview of regulated markets.
Environmental concerns are not exempt from the repercussions of diminished trust. Romania’s environmental landscape grapples with short-termism, weakened regulatory frameworks, and a reluctance to embrace sustainable practices. Collaboration to address these issues becomes increasingly challenging as societal divisions amplify, hindering the formation of a collective vision for sustainable development.
However, amidst these challenges lies the potential for transformation. Rebuilding trust in institutions, fostering transparency, and engaging citizens in decision-making processes are pivotal steps towards a more sustainable future. Romania stands at a crossroads, where the revival of trust can pave the way for resilient production, mindful consumption, and effective environmental stewardship, offering a beacon of hope for a society navigating the complex aftermath of its totalitarian past.
The built form matrix is a guide on how different configurations of the same shape can change how the space is used and perceived. The rows in the matrix stand for the initial number of rounded shapes. The columns showcase the outcome number of the buildings and all possible configurations that can be achieved.
And as a result of the evolution and application of the PP strategy to the initial Built Form Matrix this enhanced matrix is used to inform the built form and the masterplan overall.
Buildings contains functions of the political and historical research centre. As a part of the building programme the paper recycling centre is also located within the building as a part of the information circularity process.
The images below are the parti diagrams for the project explaining main big moves within the building designing process.
THEORY DEFINITION
The panopticon theory, proposed by philosopher Jeremy Bentham, describes a prison design where inmates are constantly observable from a central tower, fostering self-discipline and control. This architectural concept symbolizes surveillance and power dynamics in societal institutions, influencing discussions on authority and autonomy.
CHALLENGING NOTIONS OF POWER
In this architectural project, the panopticon theory is being utilized with an alternative interpretation where the observer becomes observed. Consequently, a clear glass stairwell core is implemented instead of a central tower, enabling individuals ascending to be observed by both fellow visitors and those outside the building. This design seeks to challenge conventional notions of surveillance and authority, fostering an environment of mutual observation and transparency.
The images to the right depict the foam model testing that has been conducted as a part of the exploration process. This massing texting allowed for a better understanding of the project’s modularity and its spatial application.
