Context
Context is “the set of facts or circumstances that surround a situation or event;: [1] The word can be applied to numerous subjects relating to architectural collaboration. For example, when working on a project, acknowledging and respecting the contextual backgrounds of individuals from other disciplines is critical for effective communication. Furthermore, it allows for a greater understanding and awareness of the skills and expertise brought to the group which is ultimately beneficial for structuring hierarchal structures and planning. Alternatively, context can be applied to an architectural design/building/site.
“It can be argued that architectural design deals with a creative synthesis of project objectives and requirements, combined with specific site and cultural conditions, to reach some optimal solution [von Meiss 1996].” [2]
This statement highlights the importance of understanding context within a design. The design is generated from its context and should be a visual expression of its contextual parameters. The context is the foundation from which the architect must build upon to produce an architectural design that is appropriate to its environment. Additionally, context is what gives an architectural design/building justification. The significance and meaning behind every element of production and representation explicated by an architectural example is directly related to its context. Without context, an architectural design is weak. It lacks true identity and distinction which can only be defined by context. Both context and design need each other. They are interdependent.
If the context were changed, the design will be directly affected. For example, simply changing the orientation of a building on a site can have an adverse affect on its design. Changing the orientation of a site transforms “the circulation routes, the relationship of public and private space, to the effectiveness of solar access and control”[3] Therefore, such a scenario is testimony to the strict interdependent relationship between context and design.
In relation to ARCH1392, Group B has chosen Wombarra House, an architectural design strongly influenced by its context. The final decision to select this design as the basis of our fabrication task was largely a result of its local context. Greater access to information about the design due to proximity became a common benefit acknowledged by all. In itself, the design was generated from its client who has acknowledged the context of the Wombarra site, evident in the choice of local and natural materials. The numerous wall-sized windows around the building suggest an emphasis on viewing the surrounding nature of bush and sea.
Through intuitive utilization of the Unreal software, the opportunity to influence context becomes available. In fabricating 3-D digital models of particular buildings, careful consideration of the design intent of the architect as well as the context is vital. Some buildings, particularly already built, are very much immersed in their context. It is important that this relationship be captured in order to produce an appropriate and effective digital model. On the other hand, when fabricating models of some unbuilt architectural designs/projects, there is slightly more flexibility in choosing whether or not it is needed to influence context through Unreal and/or other 3-D modeling programs. For example, a particular design may need to pertain to a range of clients. Being able to cater to their needs by influencing the context to produce different designs creates a more versatile and qualitative representational model. In conclusion, there is direct relationship between design and context that must be carefully understood in order to fully appreciate its existence.
References
1. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/context Accessed: May 12, 2008.
2. A. J. Summerfield & S. Hayman 2006. On capturing context in architecture. Page 1 & 2. Accessed: May 12, 2008 <http://www.ibpsa.org/proceedings/BS1999/BS99_B-12.pdf>
3. A. J. Summerfield & S. Hayman 2006. On capturing context in architecture. Page 2. Accessed: May 12, 2008 <http://www.ibpsa.org/proceedings/BS1999/BS99_B-12.pdf>
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