Library@Orchard Pro Series Talk: Critical Research, Teaching and Practice in Architecture

Critical Research, Teaching and Practice in Architecture 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1yYSF0LVEM

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What is good architecture? A building that is functional or commercially successful or nice? What is the difference between a piece of architecture and a building? While defining it remains subjective, establishing a definition is crucial to guide an architect's practice. In this session, the speaker will share how her research on critical architectural formal languages has influenced her design approach and shaped the type of architecture she aspires to create. The speaker will demonstrate how her ideas are applied and tested through her teaching and built projects, emphasizing the vital integration of research, teaching and practice in her work.

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Book Recommendation

Central 

Martinez, Virgilio, author; Gill, Nicholas, author; Agois, Jimena, photographer; Benavides, Ernesto, photographer

Central, a culinary practice, demonstrates the transferability of principles across different disciplines. The importance of research driving a practice is applicable not only to architecture but also to other fields, such as culinary arts. Research provides a foundation for innovation, informs decision-making processes, and enhances the overall quality of the practice. 

Ten canonical buildings 1950-2000 

Eisenman, Peter, 1932-, author; Lourie, Ariane, editor

Ten Canonincal Buildings taught me the importance of critical thinking and developing a personal stance in architecture, essential in architecture to create new ideas.It looks at history as a projective and creative tool rather than looking at history in a chronological and nostalgic narrative way. 

Occupying and connecting : thoughts on territories and spheres of influence with particular reference to human settlement 

Otto, Frei, author; -Burkhardt, Berthold, editor

The book highlights Frei Otto's experiments in form-finding through material models. His manual processes can now be replicated using parametric software. However, it serves as a reminder that the mind should be the driving force behind technology. While software tools provide efficiency and precision, it is essential to maintain a creative and critical mindset. Otto's approach inspires us to harness technology as a tool, enabling us to explore new possibilities while preserving the role of human intellect and innovation in architectural design.